As part of its ongoing work to promote Swedish culture as well as the excellent bilateral relations between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Sweden, the Embassy of Sweden in Sarajevo organized the annual celebration of the traditional Swedish holiday “Saint Lucia”.
Dozens of partners from official institutions, international organizations, civil society and religious communities attended the celebration held at the Church of “Saint Anthony” in Sarajevo.
As Ambassador Helena Lagerlöf emphasized in her speech, Lucy symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness.
“We are living in dark times today, with war raging both in Ukraine and in the Middle East. Supporting Ukraine is of existential importance, so economic, military and humanitarian support to Ukraine will continue for as long as necessary. In times like these, gathering with our partners, colleagues and friends in Bosnia and Herzegovina provides comfort and helps us focus on the light that brings hope. We therefore look forward to 2025, as well as our joint work to support Bosnia and Herzegovina on its path to the EU,” she said.
Along with Midsummer, the celebration of St. Lucia is one of the most important cultural traditions in Sweden. On that day, processions in which girls and boys, led by Lucia herself, dressed in white dresses in columns walk through the streets singing and carrying candles, are held all over the country.
This year in Sarajevo, the celebration included a performance by the musical ensemble Pro Musica, who performed traditional Swedish holiday songs as well as numerous international and domestic compositions, and a tasting of traditional Swedish delicacies to celebrate the upcoming holidays, Klix.ba writes.
Photo: Imrana Kapetanovic
