Bishop Hill invites you to join in the Lucia Nights celebration on Friday December 12 and Saturday December 13 from 6 to 9 p.m. This Swedish tradition is based on a legend of Saint Lucia, Queen of Light. During a famine in Sweden, on the longest and darkest night of the year, Lucia appeared wearing a long white robe and encircling her head was a crown of candles. Legend has it that Lucia appeared on a ship laden with food. When the ship was unloaded, both it and Lucia vanished. Girls today wake their families on December 13th carrying a tray of Lucia buns while dressed in a white robe and wearing a crown of candles.
Attractions include free musical performances in various locations in town. Businesses and museums will have a Lucia girl serving cookies. Around the village, each building will have a single candle in each window, and sidewalks will be illuminated. Special Christmas gifts will also be on sale.
On Friday, December 12, Lucia Nights begins with the Lighting of the Park Christmas tree at 6 p.m. The public is invited to bring edible ornaments to hang on the tree.
Both Friday and Saturday evenings, the Peoria Cooperative Academy Chorale will be performing in VagnHall Galleri at 6 p.m., with the Mountain Men following at 7 p.m. In the Welcome Center from 6 to 9 p.m., storyteller Brian “Fox” Ellis will be sharing traditional Swedish and Pioneer Christmas stories, mixed with a sing-a-long of many of your favorite carols. At the Steeple Building, Hammer and Pick will be playing from 6 to 9 p.m., with woodcarving demonstrations going on as well. In addition, the Bishop Hill Community United Methodist Church will host the annual Soup and Chili Supper beginning at 4:30 p.m. until they run out. A free-will donation is appreciated to cover the cost of the meal.
On Saturday, December 13, there will be an Old Fashioned Barn Dance at the Colony School beginning at 7 p.m. The Rusty Pickup String Band will be performing. All dances taught and called by Gail Hintze and Jim Hicks. Admission is $5 per person, and beginners are welcome. No partner is necessary.
For more information please call 309-927-3899.
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