A local choir is bringing a traditional Swedish celebration to London.
As the days are getting darker and we start the countdown to Christmas, the shortest day of the year arrives. In the north of Scandinavia, there is next to no sunlight and, on December 13, Swedes celebrate the Italian saint of Lucia bringing the light back. Saint Lucia arrives on the day of winter solstice with a crown of candles, accompanied by a choir.
The real 3rd century martyr Lucia dedicated her life to the poor and refused to marry. It is said that she brought provisions to Christians hiding in the catacombs, using a candlelit wreath to light the way.
Initially, Lucia was only celebrated by royalty, but since the 1920s, it has been one of the most popular traditions in Sweden.
The Lucia celebration is a magical experience, and Norrsång, a Swedish choir based in Walthamstow, is bringing the experience to London this December.
Norrsång has held Lucia celebrations since 2012 and for the last two years they have given sold-out performances in St Mary’s Church for a 300 strong audience.
If you want to experience a traditional, candlelit Lucia, some mulled wine and pepparkaka (Swedish gingerbread), book your ticket for performances on Friday, December 13, at St Michaels and All Angels Church, Walthamstow, and on Saturday, December 14, in St Mary’s Church, Walthamstow.
Visit eventbrite.co.uk or email norrsangchoir.london@gmail.com
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