13-th December - is a special day for Sweden, which is called "Luciadagen" or the Day of Saint Lucia. This date marks the darkest time of the year, coinciding with Winter Solstice. Actually, it's a great idea to have a holiday of "light and hope" when it's so dark and cold outside.
Saint Lucia is a symbol of light and purity. Traditionally, Lucia is represented by a girl, wearing a long white dress with a red sash and a crown of candles on her head. She is heading a procession of girls, following her with candels in their hands. This procession is called "Luciatåg". Girls are singing song about Santa Lucia and different Christmas songs.
Although St. Lucia's Day is not an official holiday and not a day-off in Sweden, it is a popular occasion in Sweden.
Usually cities in Sweden choose a Lucia every year. Schools and universities elect a Lucia and her maids among the students and a national Lucia is elected on national television from regional winners.
Schools and churches have a lot of Lucia-concerts these days. I've visited the Lucia concert at Nikolai Church in the centre of Örebro. Here are some pictures from that event.
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| Drottningsgatan, centre of Örebro decorated for Christmas, 6 December 2013 |
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| Inside Nikolai Church, Örebro, 6 December 2013 |
There were a lot of kids in the church, watching the performance.
On the pictures you can see a boy with a cone-shaped hat decorated with golden stars, called stjärngossar (star boy). Traditionally, only girls used to take part in the Luciatåg (Lucia procession) but nowedays boys can also participate.
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| Luciatåg, Nikolai Church, Örebro, 6 December 2013 |
There are several legends about Lucia. But in all of them she was martyred and the red sash is symbolising that.
On Luciadagen people usually eat saffron buns ("Lussekatt") and drink "glögg" (hot wine with spices, can be alcoholfree).
I really recommend you to visit one of those concerts if you have a chance next year. They are very touching!
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