On Monday 14 December, the Swedish Embassy in Bangkok organized a traditional Lucia event, showcasing one of the biggest cultural traditions in Sweden – Saint Lucia Day. 440 guests from the diplomatic community, private sector, alumni network and local authorities attended the reception to watch the candlelit Lucia procession in the beautiful garden of Sukothai Hotel.
Upon arrival the guest were welcomed with traditional Swedish Christmas treats; sweet saffron buns (lussekatter), ginger snap coockies (pepparkakor) and, of course, Swedish mulled wine – a spiced, sugared and hot Christmas drink. The evening proceeded with a welcome speech by Ambassador Staffan Herrström and a beautiful Lucia procession with 30 girls and boys in long white gowns, as well as little Santas and star boys, singing traditional Christmas songs in Swedish.
Afterwards, writes the embassy, a traditional Swedish Christmas smorgasbord (julbord) was served to the tunes of Christmas carols, The Lucia celebration was without doubt much appreciated by the guests and a memorable evening for everyone involved!
Photo credits: Korawut Neeparn
