FYR BAL

Photos by S. Auberle

Today is Summer Solstice, when the light of the sun lingers longest. Here in our northern country this time is celebrated with a festival rooted in Scandinavian mythology--Fyr Bal (Norwegian for the word bonfire)--the burning of the winter witch. She is burned well and truly, with twelve great bonfires lit all up and down the beach at sunset. Sailboats, kayaks, boats of all sort drift quietly on the glass-smooth waters, the sunset putting on a perfect accompanying performance. People sit quietly, mesmerized by the flames. Magic--the only word for it. And now, let the summer begin...