| Christmas in Sweden
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If you go by Stockholm standards, Sweden might appear to be a chic, prim and proper place exuding immeasurable prosperity and style. Ice Hotel,
Sweden’s biggest attraction flaunting an ice cathedral in Jukkasjarvi attracts tourists in thousands every year,
not to leave out the stupendous popularity of Stockholm built on 14 islands.
But if you delve deeper into the recesses of the rugged, heavily forested and lake studded picturesque | |
landscapes you would be amazed at the array of choices you are being provided with in the form of Lush parks, 12000 miles of scenic coastline, 23 expansive National reserves and to top it off, the largest royal Palace in the World. You can be rest assured that your Christmas in Sweden would be no less enjoyable than a roller coaster ride.
Christmas is celebrated with great festivity and cheer for nearly two months in Sweden. It all starts with advent and each Sunday before Christmas a candle is lit on an advent wreath, which is made out of lichens and red berries.
St Lucia's Day falls on the 13th of December when the eldest daughter in the family wears a white robe and a head wreath with candles and serves the family St. Lucia buns (Lussekatter) and coffee in bed. Lucia choir show is a big event when young girls portray Lucia and "terns" while boys star as starboys, tomtenissar or ginger cookie characters.
The Christmas tree is decorated with ornaments made out of straw mainly goats, though lights and tinsel are common. On Christmas Eve, a large dinner or smorgasbord is served. Rice pudding with an almond hidden in it features as a staple and whoever finds the almond is said to be the next one to marry.
Children in Sweden are gifted presents by Jultomten (a cross between a little gnome and the German/British Santa Klaus) who is appeased by leaving him a bowl of porridge. Candles are placed on the windowsill to help him find his way to the kid’s room.
December 26 is celebrated as the St. Stephen's Day in honor of the patron saint of animals and this day is observed by giving extra food to the farm animals.The holiday season comes to an end on January 13 or the 20th day Knut when the Christmas tree and decorations are taken down.
For more details on Christmas in Sweden log on to our site 123Christians.
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