Santa Lucia

At 6:45 in the morning, it seemed as if almost all of Linköping was gathered in the church to celebrate Santa Lucia. The church was packed and illuminated with dozens of candles. We ended up finding a spot just next to the main stage on a raised stone sill which was part of the church wall. At exactly 7:00 the performance started. The room filled with a beautiful carol which grew louder and louder as the choirs entered the church and walked to the stage. The songs touch my soul. They were very moving and were beautifully song. The event ended by the choirs leaving the church again which was flowed by very long-lasting applause. As we exited the church, we were given a pepperkakar kex (gingerbread biscuit) and a cup of glogg (mulled wine). Very tradition things to have during the Christmas period.

Before lectures started at 8:30 we wanted to go to a nice café. It posed to be a bit challenging since we were not the only ones with the idea. Some places were still closed others you had to reserve a couple of weeks in advance to get a spot. We found something eventually and got a coffee to go before heading to university.

Santa Lucia is the festival of light which is on the 13th of December the shortest day of the year in the

old Julian Calendar. Santa Lucia is represented by a girl who dresses in a white dress with a red sash around her waist and a crown of candles on her head. I would differently not miss out on the chance to go. It takes place multiple time during that week so that everyone has the chance to see it.