What begins on December 13 in Sweden Norway and Finland?

On December 13, Sweden, Norway, and Finland celebrate St. Lucia's Day, a festival of lights commemorating Saint Lucia, a Christian martyr. The day marks the beginning of the Christmas season and is characterized by processions led by a girl dressed as Lucia, wearing a white gown and a crown of candles. The celebration includes singing traditional songs and serving saffron buns and coffee. St. Lucia's Day symbolizes hope and light during the dark winter months.