Swedish St. Lucia Festival

In Sweden the Christmas season begins with
St. Lucia Day, honoring a 4th
century female saint who brought light and hope to others. This year marks the 100th year the youth of Emanuel have performed a
traditional St. Lucia pageant.  Dressed in authentic clothing they sing Swedish holiday songs by candlelight. There's a lovely reception after each performance with pepparkakor cookies, Swedish buns, coffee and punch.  All
are welcome to begin this Christmas season with this year's
beautiful celebration.  Of the 33 member cast, 9 are West Hartford residents.  Molly Swanson, a senior at Conard High will be Lucia at the 5pm performance and Maria Flanders, a senior at Hall High will be Lucia at the 8pm performance.  Tickets can be purchased at the door the evening of the performace: $5 per adult ticket; $2 per child.  A donation will be made to Hands on Hartford's MANNA Program.  www.emanuelhartford.org