BISHOP HILL — Bishop Hill invites everyone to join in the Lucia Nights celebration from 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 7 and 8.

This Swedish tradition is based on a legend of Saint Lucia, Queen of Light. During a famine in Sweden, on the longest and darkest night of the year, Lucia appeared wearing a long white robe and encircling her head was a crown of candles. Legend has it that Lucia appeared on a ship laden with food. When the ship was unloaded, both it and Lucia vanished. Girls today wake their families on Dec. 13 dressed in a white robe and wearing a crown of candles carrying a tray of Lucia buns.

Attractions will include free musical performances in various locations in town. Businesses and museums will have a Lucia girl serving cookies. Around the village, each building will have a single candle in each window, and sidewalks will be illuminated. Special Christmas gifts will also be on sale.