 St. Lucy's Day, celebrated annually in December, is integral to Swedish culture. But what exactly is this celebration about? This immensely atmospheric celebration is a 400-year-old custom that brings peaceful joy each year on 13th of December. It is a historic custom that involves spectacular processions, with a lineup of candle-carrying characters, beautiful singing, and Christmas-y treats. The procession is led by Lucy herself. It plays out in kindergartens, schools, care homes, churches and offices across the country, and even on national TV. Many events are held at dusk. Waving in anticipation, the audience's first sign of Lucy's approach is a warm chorus coming from the distance, followed by soft light, cutting through the pre-dawn darkness. Leading the procession is Lucy, followed by handmaidens, star boys and gingerbread men. And, some children in the procession may also be dressed as Christmas elves. Lucy wears a lit-up wreath on the top of her head. Traditionally, real candles were used, but for safety reasons they've been replaced by battery-powered ones. The handmaidens carry candles and typically wear glitter or a wreath in their hair, and glitter or a decorative red ribbon around the waist. The star boys were all white, just like Lucy and the handmaidens, with cone-like hats and star-adorned sticks. There are lantern-carrying gingerbread men, too. Lucy also offers treats, like gingerbread biscuits and an S-shaped saffron bun called a loose-sacad. And, from little cups, people drink sips of glug or mulled wine, served with almonds and raisins. This Christian feast can be traced back to the fourth century. It commemorates the martyr Lucy of Syracuse, who brought food to Christians hiding in Roman catacombs, lighting her way with a candlelit wreath on her head. The date is significant. 13th of December was the historic Julian calendar's shortest day, and according to Swedish folklore, the long night was dangerous, with dark spirits out in force. Staying awake was paramount, and eating helped. Hence, the small feast associated with today's St. Lucy celebration. St. Lucy is anchored in tradition, but it keeps evolving. No longer confined to the borders of Sweden, the custom has also spread to other countries. You'll find Lucy's Day events in countries including Italy, Germany, Latvia, Russia, and China. A great St. Lucy celebration is also held in London each year. Experience St. Lucy's Day once and it's likely you'll get smitten too. It's a celebration like no other.