IRON MOUNTAIN — The Iron Mountain area Finnish-American Raja Ryhma will host its annual Juhannus picnic Saturday at City Park in Iron Mountain.

This traditional celebration usually takes place in Finland on the longest day of the year in June, after enduring the long, dark winter that has few daylight hours between mid-December and mid-January.

Some people enjoy time together on Midsummer’s Eve to have a bonfire or kokko, as it is called in the Finnish language. Others celebrate on Midsummer Day, which has the longest daylight hours of the year. Finnish settlers in the United States have continued these traditions.

Attendees will gather for a meet-and-greet time at noon at the Bradley Maki pavilion, which is the log structure near the deer park.

Everyone is asked to provide a dish to share for the potluck picnic lunch that follows at 12:30 p.m. A favorite Finnish recipe would be especially welcome, although all food on the table is enjoyed.

Coffee and lemonade will be provided, but those attending should bring their own plates and utensils.

New this summer will be a silent auction of Finnish items donated by members, with proceeds going to the Raja Ryhma treasury. For those who have an item to pass along, a table will be set up for display along with the silent auction forms. Donors are asked to provide a value of the items.

Attendees who might find a Finnish treasure they’d like to have should have a little cash on hand for their winning purchase.

Special music will be provided by Paula D.

Everyone is welcome to enjoy this summer event.

For more information, call Melanie Olson at 715-251-1791 or Karen Wertanen at 715-528-4744.