St. Knut’s Day

St. Knut’s Day (Tjugondag Knut), observed annually on January 13, marks the traditional end of the Christmas season in Sweden and Finland. This festive day is celebrated with various customs that bid farewell to the holiday period.

History of St. Knut’s Day

St. Knut’s Day is named after Canute Lavard, a Danish duke who was assassinated on January 7, 1131. Following his death, he was declared a saint, and his feast day was initially observed on January 7. In 1680, the date was moved to January 13, aligning with the conclusion of the Christmas season. This shift led to the association of St. Knut’s Day with the end of Yuletide festivities in Sweden and Finland.

Why is St. Knut’s Day important?

St. Knut’s Day holds cultural significance as it:

• Marks the end of Christmas: It signifies the conclusion of the holiday season, allowing communities to transition back to regular routines.
• Encourages communal activities: The day is celebrated with gatherings, dances, and parties, fostering social bonds.
• Preserves traditional customs: Practices like julgransplundring (plundering the Christmas tree) keep cultural heritage alive.
• Provides closure to festivities: It offers a structured end to celebrations, helping individuals prepare for the year ahead.
• Involves children in traditions: Many activities are child-centric, ensuring the continuation of customs across generations.

How to celebrate St. Knut’s Day

Celebrations typically include:

• Julgransplundring (Christmas tree plundering): Families gather to remove decorations from the Christmas tree, often accompanied by songs and dances.
• Children’s parties: Special events are organized where children enjoy games, sweets, and the final moments of holiday cheer.
• Dancing and singing: Traditional songs are sung, and dances are performed around the tree before it is taken down.
• Disposal of the Christmas tree: After the festivities, the tree is removed from the home, symbolizing the end of Christmas.
• Community events: Some towns host public gatherings with music and dancing to mark the occasion.

St. Knut’s Day Dates Table