The Festival of Saint Lucia
The Festival of St. Lucia, which is traditionally celebrated on December 13, begins the Christmas season in Swedish custom.
According to Swedish legend, a ship carrying a maiden "clothed in white and crowned with light" appeared on the shore in Värmland during a great famine. The maiden, widely believed to be Lucia, distributed food and clothing to the needy, thus endearing herself to the Swedish people. As a school founded by Swedish immigrants, the Gustavus Adolphus College community has found it appropriate to celebrate some Swedish traditions.
Gustavus has celebrated the Festival of St. Lucia since 1941, during which time Lucia activities have taken many different forms. Changes in the academic schedule this year prompted the Friends of the Library-Gustavus Library Associates and campus organizers to reflect on what form Lucia could take to celebrate this beloved tradition in a way that engages the current students and broader Gustavus circle of friends.
The Friends of the Library-GLA is delighted to announce a new St. Lucia Fika happening from 10 - 11:15 a.m. in Alumni Hall. The event will feature a light breakfast and reflections from two amazing women leaders, Lupe Olague, our 2023 St. Lucia, and Gustavus Provost Brenda Kelly.
The Lucia Festival will continue with a Chapel service at 11:30 a.m. in Christ Chapel. The student organizers of the Chapel service are partnering with Gustavus Women in Leadership in planning a celebration that brings out themes of the Lucia story of lifting women up and honoring people who are lights in the world. The Lucia service will continue to have the Lucia Court and reading of the Lucia legend and will now include time to participate in a craft or service project, Swedish treats, and socializing.
Registration is open for the St. Lucia Fika Breakfast!