Lucia — The Festival of Light
On December 13th, Sweden celebrates Lucia — one of the most atmospheric and emotional festivals of the year. In the darkest time of the year (in Stockholm, it's only light for 6 hours), Lucia literally brings light into the darkness.
The Procession
Lucia is a procession: A young woman (the "Lucia bride") wears a white gown and a crown of burning candles on her head (today mostly electric, but the wax candle tradition is maintained in many places — bravely!). She leads a procession of girls in white dresses (Tärnor, maidens) and boys as Stjärngossar (star boys with pointed paper hats). The procession sings the Lucialized (a Swedish version of "Santa Lucia," the Neapolitan song) and other traditional Christmas carols.
The tradition dates back to Saint Lucia of Syracuse (Sicily, 3rd century) — a martyr who brought food to hidden Christians in the dark and wore candles on her head to keep her hands free. In Sweden, this story merged with the Julian calendar (before the calendar reform of 1753, December 13th was the winter solstice — the longest night of the year).
Where to Experience Lucia
- Every School and Kindergarten: On the morning of December 13th, Lucia processions move through classrooms and kindergartens. Parents regularly cry with emotion.
- Churches: Lucia concerts in Stockholm's Storkyrkan (Cathedral), Uppsala Cathedral, and many other churches. The combination of candlelight, singing, and medieval architecture is overwhelming.
- Offices and Hospitals: Lucia processions visit offices and hospital wards — one of the few traditions where Swedes become unabashedly emotional.
- Stockholm's Lucia: Each year, a "Stockholm Lucia" is chosen, who sings in a festive concert at the Konserthuset — a social event.
Lucia Pastry: Lussekatter
The Lucia festival includes Lussekatter (Lucia cats) — S-shaped saffron buns with raisins at the ends. The saffron gives the buns their bright yellow color and a warm, exotic taste. Glögg (Swedish mulled wine with almonds and raisins) is served with it. Lussekatter are available from early December in every Swedish bakery — they are THE Christmas pastry of the country.
