As part of its ongoing efforts to promote Swedish culture and strengthen the long-standing bilateral relations between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Sweden, the Embassy of Sweden in Sarajevo hosted its annual celebration of the traditional Swedish holiday Santa Lucia on Thursday.
The ceremony took place at the Church of the Holy Rosary in Sarajevo, bringing together dozens of guests from state institutions, international organizations, civil society and religious communities.
In her address, Ambassador Helena Lagerlöf highlighted the symbolism of Santa Lucia, noting that the figure represents the triumph of light over darkness.
“Every December 13th, across Sweden, people gather for Santa Lucia processions in schools, workplaces, shopping malls and embassies around the world,” she said.
Ambassador Lagerlöf also recalled the legend behind the tradition: during a time when Sweden was shrouded in darkness and threatened by dangerous creatures, St. Lucia appeared carrying light and bringing food to the poor.
She drew a parallel with the current global climate, stressing that the world is once again facing difficult and dark times, with wars continuing in several regions, including Ukraine as it enters a fourth winter of conflict.
“In moments like these, it is especially important that we gather and bring light,” the ambassador emphasized.
Santa Lucia remains one of Sweden’s most cherished cultural traditions. Across the country, processions of girls and boys dressed in white, led by Lucia herself, walk through streets and venues singing and carrying candles.
This year’s celebration in Sarajevo featured a performance by the music ensemble Pro Musica, which performed traditional Swedish holiday songs alongside international and local compositions.
Guests also enjoyed a tasting of traditional Swedish delicacies prepared for the occasion, marking the start of the festive season.
