🔥 Sankthans in Norway: bonfires on the shore, the best spots and safety rules 🌊

Sankthansaften (Jonsok) is a summer evening like no other. It's when all of Norway flocks to the water: bonfires on beaches, picnics on islands, warm light over the fjords, and in the north — almost a white night. Travellers are in for a treat with this unique cultural experience that's not at all formal. You'll get to experience all the local traditions, enjoy a real family atmosphere and be amazed by the way they respect and work with nature. This awesome guide tells you everything you need to know! Where to find bonfires in major cities, how to navigate safety rules and åpne ildforbud (open fire bans), what is usually open in the evening, how to get there and back without a car, and how to keep the kids entertained. Let's keep our beaches beautiful and have a blast celebrating!

When is Sankthansaften/Jonsok and what is it?

This is the summer solstice (23/24 June), when Norwegians gather by the water. They light bonfires in special areas, have picnics and concerts. It wasn't a public holiday in the past, but it's still a very summery evening in terms of culture. In the south, it is sunset and twilight, while in the north, it is almost a white night. The atmosphere is suitable for families and relaxing, with no fireworks or loud music. Safety and respect for nature are priorities.

Where can you see bonfires in big cities?

Look for official beaches and islands. In Oslo, people like to go to the city beaches and "island" areas; in Bergen, it's the areas near the fjord and city bays; in Trondheim, the embankments and parks by the water; in Tromsø, viewpoints with safe areas; and in Stavanger, sandy beaches and spits. We will collect the exact locations, maps of access routes, toilet facilities and family areas in mini-guides for each city (see the navigators above).

Can you light a fire "just on the beach"?

No, it's not. You can only light an open fire if your local council says it's OK and if there's no ban on open fires (for example, if it's windy or dry). Use official campfire sites or stationary fire pits. The basic rules are: stay away from buildings and forest areas, make sure the base is stable, and have water or sand to put out fires and control the wind. You should not light fires on rocks, in trees or in the grass. This is dangerous and you could be fined.

What is "bålforbud" and how can you tell if it is in effect today?

This means that you can't light a fire when there is a high risk of fire (often during the warm season). The municipality publishes it, and it can be introduced within hours. It's easy to check the status: go to your local council's website, check the warning feed and maps of permitted areas. If the ban is in force, you can't light any fires, even small ones. Look at the alternatives below.

What are the basic safety rules for bonfires?

Choose a site that is authorised, keep water and sand nearby, and do not light a fire in strong winds. The base should be sand or soil, not stone, which can crack. Stay away from buildings, trees, dry grass and neighbours. Look after the children and dogs near the fire. When you leave, make sure you put out the fire completely by stirring and rinsing. Put ashes and charcoal in metal containers or take them with you. Do not leave glass behind.

What should you take to the campfire? Here is a list of things to consider.

Warm layers (even in summer it can be cool by the water), a blanket/seat pads, a torch/headlamp, rubbish bags (pack-in/pack-out), reusable bottles and mugs, light snacks, insect repellent, and a power bank. For children:

- Spare mittens and a hat

- A reflector

- Rules for keeping a safe distance from the fire If you're going to go for a swim, only swim at official beaches where there are lifeguards. Also, don't combine swimming with drinking alcohol.

How does night transport work this evening?

City networks usually run in the evening and during the summer. Some cities add extra trips to popular beaches and night buses back. Here's what you need to do: get there early, leave before the last bus, and keep your ticket on the app. Ferries to the islands in Oslo/Bergen in Sankthans can be busy, so make sure you allow extra time and check return trips in advance.

Are children and dogs allowed?

Yes, but choose areas where there aren't many people, stay away from the fire and talk to your children about the "fire rules" before you go. Bring warm clothes and snacks, and do not plan to return late. Dogs must be kept on a short leash and you must watch out for hot coals and skewers on the ground. If your child is tired or cold, move the celebration indoors (LED lights, hot chocolate and stories about Jonsok).

Where to eat — are cafes and takeaways open?

In summer, cafés and restaurants along the waterfront and in city centres are open, and food trucks may appear on the beaches. But queues and packed seating are normal, so plan B is a picnic and a thermos. Shops usually have normal/summer hours, and Vinmonopolet is open according to the standard weekday/Saturday schedule (closed on Sundays). Make sure you know when the place is open on the day you want to go.

And what about rubbish and cleaning up? How should you do it?

The idea is simple: take everything you brought with you. Don't leave charcoal, glass or wire on the sand; glass near the fire can cause an accident. Put the charcoal in metal bins, or take it with you when you leave (after it has cooled down). Please do not throw leftovers into the sea or river. If you see a bin that is full, find another one or take a bag with you. Littering on the beach is against the law and you will be fined.

Can you use disposable grills or barbecues?

But only where it is allowed. On many beaches, disposable barbecues are only allowed on stands or in special areas. Do not put them on wooden benches or decks, and do not leave hot coals unattended. Parks often need a base (metal or stone) and water to cool them down before they can be disposed of. If there is a ban on disposable barbecues, you cannot use them either. So check the local rules.

Are there any rules about using drones and filming?

Yes. Avoid flying over crowds or near bonfires because there is a risk of smoke. Please respect people's privacy. This means that you should only take close-ups of people or children if they have given you permission to do so. There are restricted areas near airports and helicopter pads, and you can't see as well at night. If the event is organised by the local government, drones are often explicitly banned in the announcement, so follow the instructions.

What should you do if there is a ban on bonfires?

There are many other options: official events without fireworks, picnics by the water with LED lamps and flashlights, open-air concerts and cinema, evenings at viewing points. Some local authorities allow open fires in special areas, but only if this is clearly stated. The holiday is about welcoming summer and warm evenings by the water, not about the fires.

Is it safe to swim at night? What do you need to know?

The water is cool in June, and the current and wind quickly cool you down. Swim at beaches that have buoys and ladders, and do not swim far out to sea or go into the water alone. Don't swim and drink alcohol at the same time. Children should only swim at the edge of the water, wearing bright life jackets, in good lighting and under constant supervision. In the north, you'll have better visibility during the "white night", but the water is no warmer — so remember to bring your thermal towels.

Sankthans is a night of fire, water and people. There are no stages or fireworks here, just flames that flicker, a mirror-like fjord and a sense of belonging to the Norwegian summer. If you are travelling, be sure to choose one of the city venues — you will see how the local culture celebrates the season respectfully and without being in your way. Follow the safety rules, watch out for any announcements from the local council, and leave the beach as you found it.

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