Poulsbo is a city deep in tradition and another one was celebrated June 21 at the Midtsommer Bonfire and Summer Solstice Proclamation.

The proclamation invokes the spirit of the Norse Gods and the bonfire symbolizes the sun’s peak power and triumph over darkness.

The event featured a Nordic market, the making and raising of the Maypole, and then Viking music and dancing around that Maypole.

Volunteers like Josh “Jarl” Washburn, vice president of the Sons of Norway, helped prepare for the bonfire.

Brennan Webster read the proclamation and also displayed his traditional Vegvisir tattoo on the back of his head, symbolizing his role as a pathfinder and leader in his community.

John Dornink checked the structural soundness of the Maypole, and folks like Rik Moseng on accordion provided music. Crowns were made of greenery and flowers to embody the renewal and abundance of summer, while Julie Hanson and others made a decorative Midtsommer garland and the waterfront pavilion was also decorated with greenery. Bo Moseng, originally from Sweden, acted as an expert on Scandinavian traditions at the festival.

Karl Erik Moseng admires his father Rik’s accordion.

Josh “Jarl” Washburn helps prepare for the bonfire.

The traditional Maypole was made and erected to be danced around later to Viking music.

Folks work with greenery to make decorations for the festival.