The Church Row
Church Rowing in Sandhem – Celebrating 60 Years
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the beloved Church Rowing tradition in Sandhem. It was initiated in 1965 by the local vicar Donald Kennemark, together with Stig Davidsson and Evert Löfwing. Inspired by similar events in Dalarna and the newly dug canals around Sandhem, they created what would become a cherished midsummer tradition.
On Midsummer Day, boats row from Släpebron to Sandhem Church, accompanied by live folk music on the water. The journey ends with a festive church service featuring choral singing and traditional music.
Over the years, the event has attracted visitors from near and far – even from Switzerland – and has been broadcast on Swedish national radio.
Join the 60th Church Rowing Celebration – June 21, 2025
On Saturday, June 21, 2025, Sandhem invites you to experience the 60th anniversary of the Church Rowing – a unique and much-loved Midsummer tradition.
The rowing procession begins at Släpebron, where you can park at Sandhem’s football field. From there, boats travel through the narrow canal, out into Lake Sandhemssjön, and across the water to the bay at Sandhem Church.
At the church, a warm welcome awaits with live Swedish folk music and classic Swedish fika – coffee and treats for everyone to enjoy. If you prefer to stay close to the arrival point parking is also available at Sandhem Church, where you can watch the boats as they appear across the lake.
Whether you’re joining the rowers or watching from the shore, this year’s celebration promises a beautiful mix of tradition, community, and summer spirit.
