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 at 5 a.m., there is a service in Christ Chapel, and a luncheon following sponsored by the Friends of the Library - Gustavus Library Associates.

This year the St. Lucia Festival will be virtual.
Thursday, December 10
10 a.m. CST

Legend of St. Lucia

History of St. Lucia at Gustavus

St. Lucia Festival Dates
Thursday, December 10, 2020