2021 Lucia Nights in Historic Bishop Hill

Bishop Hill invites you to join our 2021 Lucia Nights celebration on Friday December 10 and Saturday December 11 from 6 to 9 p.m.  This Swedish tradition is based on a legend of Saint Lucia, Queen of Light. Lucia Nights begins in Bishop Hill with the Lighting of the Park Christmas tree at 6 p.m. on Friday, December 10, with music provided by the Peoria Cooperative Academy Madrigal Singers.  The public is invited to bring edible ornaments to hang on the tree. On both evenings, Bishop Hill will be hosting a wide variety of free Christmas activities.  At the Fire Station, the Peoria Cooperative Academy Madrigal Singers will be performing each night at 6:15 p.m., followed by Jazz on the Side at 7:30 p.m.  At the Steeple Building Museum, Hammer and Pick will be playing a variety of Christmas and folk music from 6 to 9 p.m.  The VASA National Archives will have a closing reception for their Local Lodge Names exhibit.  Also at the Archives, storyteller Brian “Fox” Ellis will share a medley of Swedish and Pioneer Christmas stories and songs from 6 to 8 p.m.  In addition, the Bishop Hill Community United Methodist Church will host its annual Soup and Chili Supper, beginning at 4:00 p.m.  A free-will donation is appreciated to cover the cost of the meal.  Finally, the Colony Church will have Lucia and Tomte Selfie stations.