Celebrate St. Knut's Day
Gallery
Where is St. Knut's Day Celebrated?
This particular day is celebrated largely across the regions of Sweden and Norway.
Who is St. Knut's Day celebrated by?
This special day officially marks the end of the Christmas season and is celebrated by the Swedish and Norwegian people on January 13.
When did St. Knut's Day first start?
Saint Knut's Day was established officially on January 13, in the year 1680.
Who started St. Knut's Day?
This day is celebrated in honor of the Danish prince, Knut Levard. Also called Canute Levard, he was killed by his cousin Magnus who wanted to take over the Danish throne.
History And Timelines
Every year, on this day, the Knut's party or Knut's dance is held. King Knut, after his sudden death, was declared a saint, known for his generosity and benevolent nature.
Traditions And Customs
Christmas tree plundering is the most common way of celebrating this special day. All kinds of decorations and ornaments are taken down from the Christmas tree and sometimes are even tossed out of the window.
Ways To Observe Or Celebrate St. Knut's Day
Many people organize Knut's parties at their homes on this particular day. Some of the party activities include eating candies and dancing around the Christmas tree. Children bid goodbye to Santa Claus by singing farewell songs.
Facts And Stats
Canute Levard was a Danish duke who was mercilessly killed by his own cousin who wanted to seize the Danish throne, and this day is celebrated in his remembrance.
The day is a remembrance for everything king Canute Levard did and the civil war that followed his demise.
The local authorities of Sweden came up with a solution of designating areas for dumping the Christmas trees on St Knut's Day, although the problem remains.
Reign Of King Knut
Knut Levard ruled Denmark for a very brief period, 1080-1086.
1080-1086Death Of Canute Levard
It was during this period Canute Levard was mercilessly killed by his own cousin Magnus Nilsson on January 7, 1131.
1131Official Declaration Of Knut's Day
Prior to 1680, this particular day was observed on January 7. However, later on, this year, it was established in January to prevent any conflict with Ephiphany, which is celebrated on January 6.
1680Artificial Christmas Tree
By this year, artificial Christmas trees were used instead of the real ones, as they could be easily dismantled and put into storage for later use.
1980A Change In Age-Old Tradition
A new way of celebrating this special day emerged during this period. After being stripped off of all their decorations and ornaments, the Christmas trees were thrown out of the windows.
2oth CenturyWhat is St. Knut's Day in Sweden?
In Sweden, this particular day is called the Twentieth Day of Christmas.
What hangs on the Christmas tree on St. Knut's Day?
On this special day, all forms of ornaments are taken down from the Christmas tree as a mark of the end of the long holiday season of Christmas.
What are the limitations in celebrating St. Knut's Day?
Perhaps the only limitation of this special day is the practice of throwing out the Christmas tree on the streets. Volunteers from many sports clubs help collect the trees that have been discarded and recycle them for later use.
What is the motto of St. Knut's Day?
'Dancing Out Christmas' and 'Throw Out The Tree' are the mottos of this national day.
What are some events related to St. Knut's Day?
The Feast of St. Knut is held every year on January 13.
What is the history behind this day?
This day is held every year in honor of the Danish prince Canute Lavard.
When Is This Day Celebrated
- Monday, January 13, 2020
- Wednesday, January 13, 2021
- Thursday, January 13, 2022
- Friday, January 13, 2023
- Saturday, January 13, 2024
We Want Your Photos!
More for You
See All
Bachelor of Arts specializing in French with Film Studies, Bachelor of Arts (Year Abroad) specializing in Literature, History, Language, Media, and Art
Georgia StoneBachelor of Arts specializing in French with Film Studies, Bachelor of Arts (Year Abroad) specializing in Literature, History, Language, Media, and Art
Georgia is an experienced Content Manager with a degree in French and Film Studies from King's College London and Bachelors degree from Université Paris-Sorbonne. Her passion for exploring the world and experiencing different cultures was sparked during her childhood in Switzerland and her year abroad in Paris. In her spare time, Georgia enjoys using London's excellent travel connections to explore further afield.
Bachelor of Arts specializing in English Literature
Naman KhannaBachelor of Arts specializing in English Literature
An English literature graduate from Delhi University, Naman's broad interests include mathematics, science, and social science. With his knowledge and expertise in multiple subjects, he is an asset to our fact-checking team. Naman is set to pursue his postgraduate degree in English literature soon.
Disclaimer
1) Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. We hope you love our recommendations for products and services! What we suggest is selected independently by the Kidadl team. If you purchase using the Buy Now button we may earn a small commission. This does not influence our choices. Prices are correct and items are available at the time the article was published but we cannot guarantee that on the time of reading. Please note that Kidadl is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. We also link to other websites, but are not responsible for their content.
2) At Kidadl, we strive to recommend the very best activities and events. We will always aim to give you accurate information at the date of publication - however, information does change, so it’s important you do your own research, double-check and make the decision that is right for your family. We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate for all children and families or in all circumstances. Our recommended activities are based on age but these are a guide. We recommend that these ideas are used as inspiration, that ideas are undertaken with appropriate adult supervision, and that each adult uses their own discretion and knowledge of their children to consider the safety and suitability. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong.
3) Because we are an educational resource, we have quotes and facts about a range of historical and modern figures. We do not endorse the actions of or rhetoric of all the people included in these collections, but we think they are important for growing minds to learn about under the guidance of parents or guardians.
