Sain Anna-Kajsa Edström, Saint Lucia 2017
(Picture: Folkhäsan)

 Every December 13th, Saint Lucia is celebrated in Scandinavia and Helsinki is not the exception. After Lucia crowning ceremony in the Helsinki Cathedral, the young lady, who represents Saint Lucia, descends the Cathedral stairs to the Senate Square, where The Lucia Parade starts at 18:00 and ends at Eteläesplanadi-Market Square.

This celebration has been keeping alive by the Swedish-speaking. For many musically gifted girls is a real honour to being chosen as Saint Lucia. In autumn, a jury selected ten finalists and the winner is decided by popular vote.  

Lucia, wear a crown of electric candles on her head, and dressed in a white gown with a red belt. She walks around her handmaidens carries a candle bringing light into the dark winter. This celebration expands across Finland, where other girls performs as Saint Lucia in their schools, library, hometowns, etc.

If you want to assist to Lucia Parade, it’s good to know the Lucia song. You can take a look at the lyrics in English below:

The night treads heavily
around yards and dwellings
In places unreached by sun,
the shadows brood
Into our dark house she comes,
bearing lighted candles,
Saint Lucia, Saint Lucia.
Video by Folkhälsan i Finland