A Santa Lucia Festival
Photo by Claudia GrunderAdorns and cheers our way,
And still as darker grows the night
Emits a brighter ray.
~Oliver Goldsmith~
Long ago, but not so long that we have forgotten, legend tells of a young maiden dressed in white wearing a wreath of burning candles on her head. Coming from Värmland in Sweden, she crossed Lake Vantern in a boat to bring food to the starving villagers on shore. Sailing in the darkness of December, the villagers could hear her coming by the songs that she and her attendants sang and by the candles on her head.
The original St. Lucia was a young Christian martyr who lived in Sicily, Italy in the 4th century. She was known for her love and kindness.
Every December 13th this procession is played out in homes, schools, and businesses all over Sweden. Though Santa Lucia Day is thought of as a “Swedish” holiday, it must be noted that all of Scandinavia celebrates St. Lucy’s Day as well as many people of Scandinavian descent all over the world. It is a time for us to join together in joyful celebration of song and food during the darkest time of the year.
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