Bishop Hill “Julotta”

Visitors are invited to ring in Christmas Day the traditional Swedish way at the Julotta non-denominational service beginning at 6 a.m. Monday, December 25 at Bishop Hill State Historic Site. The service will be held at the restored Colony Church, built in 1848 by Swedish pioneers.

Christmas morning in Sweden begins with the Julotta service, and since 1970 the Julotta held at the Colony Church has reaffirmed the Swedish heritage of this historic community. Since the Colony Church is not heated, those planning to attend should dress warmly. Coffee and rusks will be served in the Colony Church Museum following the service.