How Does Swedish Christmas Differ From American Christmas?

St. Lucia

Swedish Christmas lasts for one month and kicks off December 13th with the feast of Saint Lucia, a Christian martyr from the 4th century. It is said that this night is the longest of the year. On this day, the eldest daughter in the family dresses up in a white robe and wears a crown of candles. She then serves her parents buns and other sweets with coffee or mulled wine.

Christmas Eve

The height of the Christmas celebration in Sweden takes place on Christmas Eve. In many American households, the Christmas tree is
put up as early as Thanksgiving day. In Sweden, the tree is not put up until Christmas Eve or the day before. On Christmas Eve, everyone gathers for a large feast or smorgasbord that includes ham, cod and rice porridge.

After the feast, Tomte comes to the house to bring gifts and tell jokes. Tomte is similar to the American Santa Claus, but rather than an older man who lives at the North Pole, Tomte is a gnome who lives under the house.

The Days Following

On Christmas Day, Swedes typically attend a very early morning church service. After church, most return home to relax with family or attend parties. The day after Christmas is known as Boxing Day. Although Boxing Day is celebrated in many countries, including Sweden, it is not celebrated in the United States. Traditionally, Boxing Day was a day for the servants to celebrate and receive small gifts from their employers. Today in Sweden, it is simply an extension of the Christmas holiday when businesses are closed and people have more time to spend at home with family and friends.

In Sweden, Christmas continues for twenty more days. The close of the Christmas season is called Knut's Day or Hilarymas and takes place on January 13th. On this day, the tree and decorations are taken down and all the leftover sweets are consumed.

Resources

• Swedish Christmas