The Swedish Lucia celebration is an annual festival of medieval origin, observed on the 13th of December. On this day, the darkness is brightened by Saint Lucia, a creature of goodness and light who opens the door to the Christmas season. Swedish singer Eva Engman treats children and their families to a special Lucia performance at Scandinavia House on December 9, 2006.
Award-winning chef Marcus Samuelsson and Restaurant Aquavit present an exciting twist on the traditional Swedish Christmas smörgåsbord (julbord) on December 9 and 10. Guests are invited to savor the season with a huge selection of traditional Scandinavian holiday dishes like Swedish meatballs, herring, salmon, sausage, hot glögg, tasty desserts, and much more. The restaurant offers both lunch and dinner seatings, with a Lucia performance taking place each evening.
The Scandinavian Chamber Orchestra of New York performs Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 12 in A major, K. 414, Rangström’s Divertimento Elegiaco for strings, Delius’ Air and Dance for string orchestra as well as traditional Swedish Christmas songs in a special concert at Scandinavia House on December 10. The orchestra features acclaimed Swedish pianist Per Tengstrand and Swedish soprano Tina Glenvik.
Throughout December 2006, the Holiday Shop at Scandinavia House expands into the exhibition galleries to offer a huge selection of holiday products, from exclusive design items to traditional decorations and treats such as Christmas tree ornaments, tomte dolls, candles, cookies, candies and chocolates.