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Celebrate Norway’s Santa Lucia tradition with a glowing kayak paddle along Trondheim’s Nidelva River on December 13th. Whether beginner or expert, this magical winter event offers a peaceful, illuminated evening on the water you won’t forget.
Celebrate Norway’s Santa Lucia tradition with a glowing kayak paddle along Trondheim’s Nidelva River on December 13th. Whether beginner or expert, this magical winter event offers a peaceful, illuminated evening on the water you won’t forget.
Book with Trondheim Kajakk
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Operated by Trondheim Kajakk · Trondheim, Trøndelag
Every December 13th, the city of Trondheim in Trøndelag, Norway, transforms its famous Nidelva River into a glowing ribbon of light, inviting paddlers to celebrate the cherished tradition of Santa Lucia. Lucia-padling 13.desember offers a unique nighttime kayak experience where the darkness of a Norwegian winter evening is lit not only by festive lanterns but by the harmony of glowing kayaks drifting along the shimmering water. This event blends cultural heritage with outdoor adventure, creating a serene yet stirring way to engage with Trondheim’s winter landscape.
The Nidelva River is central to Trondheim’s identity, flowing through the city’s historic core surrounded by picturesque wooden buildings and bright urban lights reflected in its gentle currents. On this special evening, the river becomes a stage for light and reflection. Kayaks equipped with soft luminous features guide participants on a peaceful 2-hour paddle from the meeting point at Nedre Ila 6B, where warm gear and kayaks are provided. Paddlers glide quietly beneath the starry sky, surrounded by softly illuminated banks and the warmth of communal celebration in the crisp December air.
What makes this experience exceptional is its accessibility; beginners and seasoned paddlers alike can join, requiring only a basic level of comfort with watercraft. The tradition of Santa Lucia, originating from Scandinavian folklore, honors the bringer of light during the darkest time of year, and this paddle physically embodies that symbolism on Nidelva’s calm waters. It’s an opportunity to connect with local culture while staying active in a stunning natural setting.
This night paddle offers a fresh perspective on Trondheim’s winter charm, far removed from the typical tourist routes. Tourists who stay in Trondheim gain direct access to this authentic Norwegian celebration that combines history, outdoor activity, and community spirit in one unforgettable event. For those planning a winter trip to Norway’s Trondheim region, booking this kayak tour adds a memorable highlight to your itinerary.
Whether you’re seeking a quiet outdoor experience or a festive way to embrace winter nights, Lucia-padling 13.desember delivers magic on the water. Join the glow, feel the stillness of the river, and be part of a living tradition that transforms a simple kayak trip into an enchanting journey of light and peace.
easy.
2 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; basic paddling ability recommended but beginners welcome.
No experience required. The event welcomes beginners and provides all necessary guidance and safety equipment.
Provided gear includes kayak, lights, wetsuit, and life vest.
The tour operates in most conditions but may be canceled for severe weather; participants will be notified in advance.
Participants must be at least 16 years old to join this paddle.
The meeting point is at Nedre Ila 6B in Trondheim.
Dress in warm, moisture-wicking layers appropriate for winter; wetsuits and vests are provided.
The Santa Lucia tradition celebrates bringing light in winter darkness, rooted in Scandinavian culture dating back centuries. Trondheim embraces this with the glowing paddle on Nidelva.
Participants are encouraged to respect the river’s ecosystem by not disturbing wildlife and minimizing waste to preserve Nidelva’s natural beauty.
Trondheim Kajakk is a Trondheim-based outdoor activity provider offering guided kayak tours, SUP (stand up paddleboard) trips, rentals, courses and seasonal events in Trondheim, Trøndelag. The company operates a broad program that includes instructor-led experiences, self-guided rental options, multi-hour trips and shorter introductory courses designed for beginners and recreational paddlers. Trondheim Kajakk runs city paddles on the Nidelven river and fjord, Nyhavna kayak tours (with optional sauna), winter kayaking with dry suits and safety briefings, and specialty events such as Halloween padletur, Glowing Kayaking, Lucia-padling and romantic paddles down the Nidelven. Course offerings include Intro to Sea Kayaking, a 16-hour sea kayak course, Intro to SUP, and the EFOIL Licence to Fly experience, which notes wetsuits and life jackets are provided. Rental inventory includes sea kayaks, single and double sit-on-top kayaks, and SUP boards at locations including Nyhavna, Grilstad Marina, Øysand, Brattørkaia and Tautra. Safety and local knowledge are emphasized: many experiences include an instructor, safety briefing and appropriate equipment such as dry suits for winter kayaking and wetsuits for specified courses. Trondheim Kajakk also offers non-paddling activities like hiking and snowshoeing tied to Trondheim’s trails and tram access. All descriptions and trip options reflect offerings available in Trondheim and nearby locations, allowing visitors to choose guided instruction, rental independence or seasonal themed events.
Book with Trondheim Kajakk