Christmas is coming: Danes celebrate Lucia on water in Copenhagen harbour

Santa Lucia, commemorated on the 13th of December, was a tribute to the historical martyr, Lucia of Syracuse. The figure is traditionally represented in concerts by an individual adorned with a crown of candles.

However, in Copenhagen, the celebration is also held on water, featuring a procession of approximately 300 kayaks gliding through the harbor. This annual Lucia kayak procession has been taking place since 2006 and has become immensely popular, with individuals enduring the cold, securing spots hours in advance.

Originally a Swedish tradition, Lucia has been celebrated in Denmark since the mid-1940s.