The Christmas tradition of “Julotta” returns at Bishop Hill State Historic Site. All are welcome to attend a nondenominational church service at 6 a.m. Christmas Day, Saturday, Dec. 25 in the Colony Church. The word Julotta comes from the Swedish words for “yule” and “before dawn.” Christmas morning in Sweden begins with attendance at the Julotta service. Since 1970, the service has been a tradition in Bishop Hill to help reaffirm the community’s Swedish heritage. Constructed in 1848 by Swedish immigrants, the public is invited to attend the worship service at the restored Colony... Read More

The Christmas tradition of “Julotta” returns at Bishop Hill State Historic Site. All are welcome to attend a nondenominational church service at 6 a.m. Christmas Day, Saturday, Dec. 25 in the Colony Church. The word Julotta comes from the Swedish words for “yule” and “before dawn.” Christmas morning in Sweden begins with attendance at the Julotta service. Since 1970, the service has been a tradition in Bishop Hill to help reaffirm the community’s Swedish heritage. Constructed in 1848 by Swedish immigrants, the public is invited to attend the worship service at the restored Colony... Read More