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.
The 2022 St. Lucia Festival was on Thursday, December 8 at 10 a.m. (CT) in Christ Chapel with a luncheon to follow in Cec Eckhoff Alumni Hall. No ticket is required for the Chapel service. Tickets will go on sale for the luncheon on Tuesday, November 1 at noon. There are no refunds, but tickets are transferable.
Watch the 2022 St. Lucia Festival
Watch the 2021 St. Lucia Festival.
2020 St. Lucia Festival was virtual. Watch it here.