The people of Denmark have their big Christmas meal at midnight on Christmas Eve.  For dessert they have a special rice pudding with one almond in it.  Whoever gets the almond will have good luck in the coming year.

In Sweden, Christmas celebrations start on December 13.  This is the feast of Saint Lucia.  Centuries ago, Lucia took food to Christians who were being persecuted.  They were hiding in caves.  Wearing candles on her head to light the way, the Lucia brought them food.  She helped feed many hungry Christians.  Today, the oldest girl in a Swedish family acts a Lucia on the feast day.  The girl wears a evergreen wreath with seven candles on her head.  Walking very carefully, she brings breakfast to her family.