In Sweden, the countdown to Christmas is almost as important as the holiday itself! We decorate our houses abundantly, light one Advent candle each Sunday, and celebrate the coming of Christmas with glögg (glühwein) and pepparkakor (ginger cookies). The arrival of Lucia, early dawn of the 13th December, brings families together to watch the kids Lucia performances at daycare centres and schools, or enjoying the nationally televised Lucia choir. It’s also celebrated at offices – if Lucia herself doesn’t show up in her white clad, you can be sure to find a lussebulle (saffron bun) with your morning fika!
