Santa Lucia - December 13. Santa Lucia is celebrated in Sweden early in the morning of December 13. Lucia was originally a young woman, born in Syracuse and martyred there for her Christian faith. The Swedish celebration of Lucia is mostly associated with light (Latin – lux). The original celebration was on the winter equinox (during the time of the Julian calendar). After that date the days became longer and lighter, which was celebrated. Today, Lucia is celebrated as the bringer of light. Many people stay up all night Dec. 12 to meet Lucia. Lucia wears a white robe with red sash and has a woven crown of greenery with several lit candles in it. She has a train of attendants, both male and female, who have conical hats with stars on them, whereof the name star boys and star girls. They all have candles in their hands, symbolizing the coming of light. The attendants sing several different songs associated with Lucia and the coming of light. There are also funny songs. Lucia and her attendants often form a procession, visiting neighbors and institutions (like hospitals, old folks homes, etc..) Often they have coffee and special Lucia baked goods (i.e. saffron buns) they invite their hosts with. Many Lucia celebrations are held in churches with candle light only and much music, both traditional Lucia music and sacred music relevant to Advent since Lucia comes in the Advent season. Traditionally the Lucia crown is made of woven greenery with live candles. However, these are more and more replaced by electric candles due to the fire hazard with live candles, and the dripping of candle wax into the woman’s hair (NOT easy to get rid of. I’ve helped with this. OUCH!). Thus, some form of protection is worn between the crown and the hair if live candles are used. Since several decades back, there have been competitions as to who gets to be elected or appointed Lucia in a town or organization. Sadly, this has often led to disappointment and disputes. However, I doubt if anyone disputes this Lucia, standing by the door to the personnel cafeteria at Ängelholm General Hospital! ENJOY!