Celebrate Sankta Lucia in Stockholm December 13th

December 12, 2016 • 1 min read

On the 13th of December, the Swedes celebrate Sankta Lucia. It’s a tradition very, very integrated in the Swedish society.

The tradition’s fable is that Sankta Lucia was a Christian maiden, living in Italy, who sadly died a martyr’s death in the year 304. In Sweden, the celebration is very connected with candles. From an early age, school children arrange a performance with a “Lucia” in the front – in a white gown, with a crown of candles on her head and one in her hand. The purpose of celebrating Lucia is to bring lightness and warmth to the dark winter.

During Lucia in Stockholm, there are plenty of concerts to choose between, if you want to witness a real Lucia “train” as it’s called. One example is the one at Storkyrkan (The Cathedral) in Gamla stan with students from one of Stockholm’s most famous music schools, Adolf Fredrik. Another example is Skansen, the open-air museum in Stockholm. This setting calls for goosebumps when the choir start singing, especially since this tradition has been celebrated here since 1892… Check if there’s a concert during your requested day here. Both concerts take place more dates than just on the 13th.