Joanunar

Joanunar, also known as *jónunardagur* in Icelandic, refers to the annual tradition of celebrating the end of the Christmas season in Iceland. The holiday is observed on the first Sunday after January 1st and marks the beginning of the new year in the Icelandic lunar calendar, which traditionally followed the phases of the moon. While Christmas in Iceland lasts for 13 days, starting on December 24th (Førduga) and ending on January 1st (Nýársdagur), Joanunar serves as a symbolic transition into the new lunar cycle.

The name *joanunar* comes from the Old Norse word *jónun*, meaning "the time of Yule," which was historically tied to the winter solstice and the celebration of the Norse god Yule (or Jól). In modern Icelandic culture, Joanunar is less about religious observance and more about marking the conclusion of the festive season. It is often associated with the removal of Christmas decorations, the return to daily routines, and a sense of renewal.

Traditionally, Icelanders would gather for a final meal or gathering on Joanunar, sometimes including leftovers from the Christmas feast. The holiday also coincides with the end of the *jól* period, during which Icelanders observe various customs, such as the *13 Yule Lads* (Jólasveinar) visiting children on consecutive nights. While Joanunar is not a public holiday, it holds cultural significance as a moment of reflection and transition between the old and new year.

In contemporary Iceland, the observance of Joanunar has become less formal, but it remains a part of the country’s seasonal traditions. Some families may still honor the day with small gatherings or rituals, reinforcing its place in Icelandic folklore and cultural identity.