Celebrate Midsummer at Nääs – one of Western Sweden’s largest and most cherished traditional folk festivals. For more than 130 years, people have gathered here to dance, celebrate, and enjoy the brightest time of the year together.
The tradition dates back to the late 19th century, when students and teachers at the famous craft school filled the estate with life and festivities. That same spirit lives on today. Over two days, thousands of visitors come to Nääs to enjoy music, dancing around the maypole, and an atmosphere rich in both history and joy.
Bring your family and friends, relax in the beautiful surroundings, or join in the dancing – there is room for both peaceful moments and lively celebrations. As evening turns into night, the festivities continue with dancing and companionship well into the summer night.
Welcome to become part of a living cultural heritage in one of Western Sweden’s most beautiful settings.
12:00–15:00 Guided tours of the castle (advance booking required, Ticket Booking – Nääs Castle)
13:00 The Midsummer Festival Area at Lekhuset opens
14:00–18:00 (approx.) Prize wheel, quiz walk, and fishing game for children
14:00–16:00 Horse-drawn carriage rides and pony rides
14:30–15:30 Traditional games and competitions
15:45 Folk costume and flag parade from Vänhem to the Lekhuset grounds
16:00–18:00 (approx.) Raising of the maypole, traditional songs and circle dances, folk dance performances, and the Nääs March
18:30 The Näässamfundet Association invites guests to a traditional Midsummer buffet at Vänhem. Limited seating – advance booking required: Midsummer Buffet | Ticket Office
20:00 Traditional social dancing, guild dances, and polskas in Lekhuset
23:30 Torchlight dance, midnight coffee, and continued dancing in Lekhuset until sunrise
Food & Refreshments at Lekhuset, 14:00–18:00 (approx.)
Kaffestugan – The Castle Café, 11:00–16:00
Coffee, pastries, soup, pancakes, and sandwiches.
Nääs today is a national heritage building and a nature reserve, but also a large estate with a fantastic history.
