Jólabókaflóð

Jólabókaflóð, translating to "Christmas Book Flood," is an Icelandic tradition celebrated on Christmas Eve. On this day, people in Iceland traditionally exchange books as gifts and then spend the evening reading them. This custom is deeply ingrained in Icelandic culture, emphasizing the importance of literature and quiet reflection during the holiday season.

The tradition is believed to have originated in the aftermath of World War II. Paper was one of the few commodities not rationed during the war, leading to a surge in book publishing and sales. This abundance of books coincided with Christmas, and the practice of gifting and reading books on Christmas Eve began to flourish. Iceland has a high per capita rate of book publishing and readership, and Jólabókaflóð is seen as a significant contributor to this literary culture.

The concept of Jólabókaflóð extends beyond just the act of gifting. It encourages a communal experience of sharing stories and spending quality time together. Families often gather, perhaps with hot chocolate or other festive drinks, to immerse themselves in their new books. This tradition highlights the value placed on intellectual pursuits and the simple pleasure of reading in Icelandic society.