Errenentähdens

Errenentähdens, also known as the "Star of the Evening" or "Evening Star," is a traditional Finnish folk custom associated with the summer solstice and the beginning of the harvest season. The practice is rooted in pre-Christian agricultural rituals and is believed to have been influenced by older pagan traditions celebrating the sun’s power and the changing seasons.

The custom involves decorating a wooden star or a similar shape with flowers, ribbons, and sometimes wheat or other crops. This decorated star is then placed on a pole or carried through fields, symbolizing the blessing of the land and the protection of crops from pests and bad weather. In some regions, the star is also hung in homes or barns as a protective talisman. The act is often accompanied by singing, dancing, or reciting verses to honor the sun and ensure a bountiful harvest.

Errenentähdens is particularly prominent in rural areas of Finland, especially in the regions of Savonia and Karelia. While the practice has declined in modern times, it remains a cherished part of Finnish cultural heritage, sometimes revived during folk festivals or community events. The custom reflects a deeper connection to nature and the rhythms of the agricultural year, blending folklore with practical farming traditions.

Today, Errenentähdens serves as a reminder of Finland’s rich folk traditions and the importance of seasonal celebrations in preserving cultural identity. It is often discussed alongside other Finnish solstice customs, such as the lighting of bonfires (known as *tulitat*) during Midsummer.