Saint Lucy's Day

Lucia-13.12.06

Saint Lucy's Day (also known as Lucia Day) is a Christian feast day celebrated on December 13th in Advent, commemorating Saint Lucy, a 3rd-century martyr under the Diocletianic Persecution. The day is particularly significant in Scandinavia, where it marks the beginning of the Christmas season and is celebrated with various customs and traditions.

History

Saint Lucy, also known as Santa Lucia, was a young Christian martyr from Syracuse, Sicily. According to legend, she was killed during the Diocletianic Persecution for her faith. Her feast day, December 13th, was originally aligned with the Winter Solstice in the Julian calendar, symbolizing the return of light.

Celebrations

Saint Lucy's Day is celebrated with various customs that emphasize light and the coming of longer days. In Sweden, Norway, and parts of Finland, a girl is chosen to portray Saint Lucy, wearing a white dress with a red sash and a crown of candles. This tradition is known as the Lucia procession.

Sweden

In Sweden, the Lucia procession is a major event. The chosen Lucia leads a procession of girls dressed in white, singing traditional songs. Boys may also participate, dressed as star boys (stjärngossar) or as gingerbread men. The procession often visits schools, hospitals, and other institutions, bringing light and joy.

Norway

In Norway, similar processions take place, and the day is marked by the baking of special saffron buns called lussekatter. The celebrations are often accompanied by singing traditional songs and hymns.

Finland

In Finland, Saint Lucy's Day is celebrated with processions and the crowning of a national Lucia, who visits various events and institutions. The Finnish celebrations also include the baking of lussekatter and other festive foods.

Customs and Traditions

The customs associated with Saint Lucy's Day often involve the theme of light overcoming darkness. This is symbolized by the candles worn by the girl portraying Saint Lucy and the singing of songs that celebrate light and hope.

Food

Traditional foods associated with Saint Lucy's Day include lussekatter, saffron-flavored buns that are shaped into various forms. In some regions, gingerbread cookies and other festive treats are also prepared.

Significance

Saint Lucy's Day is a significant cultural event in Scandinavia, marking the beginning of the Christmas season. It is a time for community gatherings, singing, and the sharing of light and warmth during the darkest time of the year.

See also

• Advent
• Diocletianic Persecution
• Winter Solstice
• Lucia procession
• Lussekatter