Text Hannah Begemann
Santa Lucia, like Sinterklaas, is about a saint who visits once a year to pamper children. The way in which Santa Lucia is celebrated, however, varies enormously per region. ‘I come from Brescia, a region in the north of Italy, near Milan. We celebrate Santa Lucia on 13 December, Santa Lucia’s day. She comes by your house at night on her donkey and hides presents if you have been a good child. The next morning, by following a trail of candy, you can find your presents.’
Contrary to Sinterklaas you will never really see Santa Lucia. ‘If you look at her, she will put soot in your eyes. And everyone knows, even the children, that the Santa Lucia in the parades on 13 December is not the real one.’ Like Sinterklaas, Santa Lucia is especially for
If you look at Santa Lucia, she will put soot in your eyes
Like Sinterklaas, Santa Lucia is especially for the children who believe in the existence of the saint, although it remains an important tradition for everyone: ‘Even if you have grown up and know that Santa Lucia doesn’t exist, it’s still a day that everyone is attached to. In my high school, for example, there were classmates who brought candy to celebrate the day.’
Anna is pretty sure that someday she will celebrate Sinterklaas. For this year she is still doubtful: ‘I don’t know yet if and how I will celebrate pakjesavond. On 5 December I might go to a special event with friends. At least I don’t think my parents will fill my shoe!’