ST. KNUT'S DAY

January 13 is a special day among the Swedes, Finns and Norwegians. It is St. Knut’s Day. My dear sister (age 83) wrote me a note about this day that is worth passing along. Here is what she said,

“Even in my dotage and decline, I can still learn something new. Here it is: St. Knut's Day is soon to be upon us! This is the day the Nordic people take down their trees and end the Christmas season. After much dancing and singing the last Christmas songs, the Christmas tree is taken out. In old times, it was thrown out the window. This celebration is called ‘Julgransplundring,’ plundering of the tree.”

My sister is indeed learning many new things, as she posted this on Facebook. I also learned a few other things about St. Knut’s Day among the Scandinavians. January 13 is also the Twentieth Day of Christmas (I thought they quit counting on the Twelfth Day, Epiphany, January 6)

Canute Lavard was a Danish Duke assassinated on January 7, 1131, so his cousin could usurp the throne. A civil war followed, after which Canute was declared a saint (but not for introducing the “danish with coffee”). In 1680, St. Knut’s Day was moved to January 13, the 20th day of Christmas. Sweets and cookies are shared by all that day, and possibly danish sweet rolls.

Swedes and Norwegians joined the fun, but Finns added their own twist. The “Nuttipukki” (a scary young man dressed as a goat with mask and horns) visited houses and demanded food and alcoholic drink. Some Finnish areas still observe the Nuttipukki tradition, but he is now played by a happy little child wanting cookies and cocoa.

God made people to enjoy life. The holidays are given us to help celebrate the seasons and life. Old Testament Jews had holidays to recall God’s blessings such as the end of creation (Sabbath), the Exodus (Passover) or being spared annihilation (Purim with Queen Esther).

“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24)