Luciadagen Essay Contest
This year, Gammelgården Museum of Scandia is offering a special opportunity for youth in grades 5-12 to participate in the Luciadagen programs at the museum on Sunday, December 8, 2024, at 6:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. This is open to all youth. Youth do not need to be of Swedish ancestry to participate.
History of St. Lucia
The history of St. Lucia in Sweden is a tale rich in folklore and legend that originated from Italy. Many centuries ago, the story of a young maiden named St. Lucia, or Santa Lucia, made its way from Sicily to Sweden. The St. Lucia story tells of a girl who, to protect her faith, met a tragic end. Over time, the tale merged with the ancient Norse celebration of the winter solstice and Swedish customs.
In the 18th century, Sweden adopted the tradition, and it is now an integral part of the Swedish culture, with St. Lucia being a symbol of light in the darkness. In Sweden, the celebration occurs on December 13th, which marks the winter solstice – or when daylight is limited.
St. Lucia, the “Queen of Light,” embodies the hope and promise of brighter days ahead. She is celebrated for her compassion and selflessness, traits that the Swedish people cherish. The event serves as a reminder to spread kindness and light during the darkest time of the year.
Luciadagen at Gammelgården Museum
At Gammelgården, Luciadagen is celebrated on the Sunday closest to the winter solstice. In 2024, that date is Sunday, December 8th.
Gammelgården is doing a special essay contest for youth in 5th-12th grades (or homeschooled equivalent). Students are encouraged to write a 250-word essay about one of these subjects:
- “How the story of St. Lucia inspires me.”
- “How I am kind.”
- “How I show compassion towards others.” (Others can refer to humans, animals, and/or wildlife.)
- “How I will bring hope to others now and in 2025.”
Youth should submit their essay, along with their name, age, grade, and name of their school/homeschool, to Ann Rinkenberger, Gammelgården’s Executive Director, at: director@gammelgardenmuseum.org by November 8th. Essays will be reviewed and chosen by a committee.
Youth whose essays are chosen will attend the Luciadagen programs at 6:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. at the Old Church (Gammelkrykan) at Gammelgården and a light breakfast following the program. One parent or guardian will receive a free ticket to attend with the youth.
There will be two prizes:
- Lucia – The winner will wear a white dress, red ribbon around her waist, and a crown of battery-lit candles to represent St. Lucia. (These items are loaned to the winner, and are provided by the museum for use during the programs.) She will read her essay to the visitors at the Luciadagen programs (6:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.) in the Old Church and attend the breakfasts in the Welcome House at Gammelgården. She will receive a $25 gift card to the Butik (Gammelgården’s gift shop).
- Lucia’s Friend – The winner (any gender) is encouraged to wear a white shirt and dress pants, and/or a white dress. (The clothes are not provided by the museum.). St. Lucia’s Friend attends the Luciadagen programs (6:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.) and the breakfasts in the Welcome House at Gammelgården. The essay will be printed in the Luciadagen program. This youth will receive a $25 gift card to the Butik (Gammelgården’s gift shop).
For more information, contact Ann Rinkenberger at Gammelgården Museum at 651-433-5053 or director@gammelgardenmuseum.org
