In Denmark’s Sankt Hans celebration, what is traditionally burned on the bonfire?

In Denmark’s Sankt Hans celebration, a straw witch effigy is traditionally burned on the bonfire.

Sankt Hans is the Danish observance of Saint John’s Eve, held on June 23. Many communities light a large bonfire after sunset, and a figure made from straw and old clothing is placed on top. The effigy represents a witch and is a symbolic part of the festival rather than a depiction of a historical person.

The bonfire custom belongs to a wider European midsummer tradition in which fire was believed to protect communities and drive away harmful forces. Danish celebrations also commonly include speeches and the singing of “Midsommervisen,” a well-known midsummer song.

The witch figure is a Danish feature that helps distinguish Sankt Hans from celebrations where the main object is a decorated pole, wreath, or saint’s image.