In northern New Jersey, the chill of winter has settled in firmly, with evenings growing ever colder. Many residents are grappling with the increasing darkness that accompanies this time of year, often leading to a sense of despair. In an effort to combat these feelings, some are redefining their spaces by trading harsh lighting for warm, inviting glows from smaller lights throughout their homes. The oven, too, becomes a beacon of warmth as it’s kept busy baking comfort foods that symbolize resilience against the encroaching chill.
In particular, joyful culinary traditions are cherished during the holiday season, serving as reminders of warmth and community amidst the winter gloom. One such tradition is linked to St. Lucia, a 4th-century martyr whose feast day falls on December 13. Celebrated notably in Scandinavian countries, St. Lucia is venerated as a bringer of light—her legendary story tells of her delivering food to Christians hiding in the Roman catacombs while wearing a crown of candles to keep her hands free to carry supplies.
The festivities surrounding St. Lucia’s Day vary by region but have common elements, including processions of children dressed in white gowns adorned with red sashes and crowned with evergreens. These young “Lucias” often distribute lussekatter, a special S-shaped saffron and cardamom bun, to their parents and elders. Traditionally paired with mulled wine, coffee, or tea, these pastries symbolize the generosity of St. Lucy during her time in the catacombs.
Attempting to embrace this tradition, some have taken to baking lussekatter, with recipes from sources like Atlas Obscura providing detailed guidance on infusing saffron into the dough, a practice steeped in warmth and craft.
The act of preparing and sharing these buns represents a meaningful resistance against the longest nights of the year. In regions where sunlight is fleeting and winter darkness feels pervasive, St. Lucia embodies a sense of hope. As children adorned in festive attire bring warmth through food and camaraderie, they reflect the spirit of strength and renewal associated with the saint.
This annual celebration of light during the darkest months echoes sentiments found in the popular song “Sankta Lucia,” which conveys a promise that darkness will eventually give way, heralding a new dawn. Through these traditions, communities find comfort and joy, reminding themselves that togetherness and warmth can illuminate even the longest nights.
