St Lucia was a young Christian girl who was martyred, killed for her faith, in 304. The most common story told about St Lucia is that she would secretly bring food to the persecuted Christians in Rome, who lived in hiding in the catacombs under the city. She would wear candles on her head, so she had both her hands free to carry things. Lucy means ‘light’ so this is a very appropriate name.
Luciafest is now celebrated by a girl dressing in a white dress and a red sash around her waist with a crown of candles on her head. Children over 12 will sometimes use real candles!
Schools, towns, and villages usually choose their own Saint Lucia. A national Lucia is also chosen. Lucias visit hospitals, old people’s homes, and sing a song and hand out ginger snap biscuits.