Originally coming from pagan culture of Scandinavia, this special winter tradition is revealed in a great deal of magic and mystery. According to studies it’s one of the most important celebration and takes place close to the winter solstice, the darkest time of the year. It’s still celebrated in Sweden, Norway, Dania and Finland on 13 December. Name “St Lucia’s Day” was invented in order to mix local traditions with Christian Religion that came to Scandinavia between 8th-12th century.
The Crown
The most beautiful and mysterious about this tradition is light crown that young girl supposed to wear representing St Lucia. The candles are typically arranged in a circular crown and are often real, although nowadays electric candles are sometimes used for safety. This symbolizes light and hope during the darkest time of the year.
The Procession
The main girl wears white robe and the light crown, other girls in the procession are called tärnor (maidens) and wear white robes with glittering crowns or garlands. Boys, called stjärngossar (star boys), wear white robes with cone-shaped hats decorated with stars. The procession involves singing traditional songs, most famously "Sankta Lucia", which is based on an Italian melody but adapted to Scandinavian traditions.
The Table
Celebrating this tradition people drink hot Glögg (similar to Mulled wine), coffee and eat special buns called Lussekatter, saffron-flavored shaped like an “S” and decorated with raisins, gingerbread cookies. In fact, modern Christmas traditions are based on these old Northern rituals.
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