Wellington's Swedish Community Celebrates 'Lucia'

Wellington, June 15, 2008. Members of the Swedish community celebrate 'Lucia' - one of Sweden's most popular events - at the Johnsonville Community Hall. A group of young women wearing white robes and holding candles form a procession marking the start of the evening's festivities. In Sweden, 'Lucia' is traditionally celebrated on December 13, one winter's darkest nights. (Lucia is celebrated in june, in the southern hemisphere).

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According to the legend, Lucia was a young woman originating from the island of Sicily (Italy), who burned at the stake, accused of sorcery. She was later canonised by the church. Lucia's legend can be traced in several european countries, but it is in Sweden that her symbol of hope and light is the strongest. During 'Lucia', a young white-clad woman wears the 'light in her hair' as she and her consorts form a procession while entering the place where everyone is gathered.

No Lucia celebration is complete without lussebullar (saffron breads), luciapepparkakor (gingerbread cookies) and glugg, a very popular mulled wine. Children are also entertained with shows of magic...

Photos: c2008 Karim Sahai/karimsahai.com

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More photos of the Wellington Lucia celebration:

http://pa.photoshelter.com/gallery-show?G_ID=G0000G2gE4j64ikM

About The Sweden-NZ Association: http://www.sweden.org.nz

About 'Lucia': http://www.swedenabroad.com/Page____29811.aspx

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