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. 

Traditionally at Gustavus a St. Lucia Court sings carols through the residence halls starting in the early morning and then a service in Christ Chapel, and a luncheon following sponsored by the Friends of the Library - Gustavus Library Associates.

Watch the 2023 St. Lucia Festival



Watch the 2022 St. Lucia Festival



Watch the 2021 St. Lucia Festival.


2020 St. Lucia Festival was virtual. Watch it here.


Legend of St. Lucia

History of St. Lucia at Gustavus