A special show has been staged in Beijing to celebrate Sweden's Lucia Day, which is being observed today.
A group of Swedish children dressed up as Saint Lucia, complete with white dresses and a crowns of candles.
The event, co-held by famous Swedish companies IKEA and Ericcson, is hoping to introduce the Swedish festival of lights to China and promote exchange between the two countries.
The day was named after a young girl who, during Roman times, was put to death for her Christian beliefs.
It has become a symbol of light and reminds the Swedish people that after December the long dark nights will get shorter.
(CRI December 25, 2002)