In Scandinavia, the holiday season officially comes to an end with St. Knut’s Day, celebrated on January 13th. Known as Tjugondag Knut (Twentieth Day Knut) in Sweden and Finland, and as Knutdagen in Denmark and Norway, this unique tradition marks the conclusion of Christmas festivities and the start of the new year with a blend of merriment, community, and old customs.
Who Was St. Knut?
St. Knut’s Day is named after King Knut IV of Denmark, also known as Knut the Holy, who reigned during the late 11th century. King Knut was a devout Christian and is regarded as Denmark’s patron saint. While the day is associated with him, there is little historical evidence linking his life to the Christmas season. However, the tradition is thought to have evolved over time from older Christian and pagan customs, blending the name of the saint with local practices.
The Customs and Traditions
St. Knut’s Day is marked by several activities that differ slightly across Scandinavian countries, but they all share a festive and communal spirit.
1. The End of Christmas
St. Knut’s Day officially concludes the Christmas season. On this day, it is customary to:
Take down the Christmas tree and decorations.
Enjoy one last festive gathering with family and friends. In many households, the process of removing decorations is a symbolic way to bid farewell to the holiday season and welcome the year ahead.
2. Christmas Tree Plundering (Julgransplundring)
Particularly in Sweden and Finland, julgransplundring (literally “Christmas tree looting”) is a beloved St. Knut’s tradition. Families gather for one final celebration around the Christmas tree before it is taken down. Typical activities include:
Singing and Dancing: People sing traditional songs and dance around the tree.
Candy and Treats: Children “plunder” the tree by taking any edible decorations, such as candy or gingerbread ornaments, and enjoying sweets prepared for the occasion.
Games and Activities: Party games and activities are organized for children, creating a festive atmosphere to close the season.
3. Community Gatherings
In some areas, especially in Denmark and Norway, St. Knut’s Day is an occasion for community events. These may include:
Street processions: People dress up and sing traditional songs.
Feasting: Neighbors come together to share leftover Christmas treats or a communal meal. This communal spirit reflects the importance of togetherness in Scandinavian culture.
Modern-Day Celebrations
While some of the customs have faded over time, particularly in Denmark and Norway, St. Knut’s Day remains an important date in Sweden and Finland. In Swedish schools, for example, children may still take part in julgransplundring parties, and families embrace the day as a chance to share joy and laughter one last time before the Christmas decorations are stored away.
In contemporary Scandinavia, the holiday is a reminder of the importance of traditions that connect communities and celebrate the changing of seasons. Even as St. Knut’s Day grows more low-key, its spirit of festivity and reflection remains deeply rooted in the Nordic way of life.
A Day of Transition
St. Knut’s Day encapsulates the bittersweet transition from the warmth and joy of the holiday season to the long, cold winter months ahead. By celebrating together, Scandinavians not only honor their cultural heritage but also find comfort and cheer to carry into the year to come.
Whether through candy-filled trees, song, or simply the camaraderie of loved ones, St. Knut’s Day is a heartwarming finale to Scandinavia’s Christmas season—a reminder that even as celebrations end, the bonds formed during them endure.
