Jólin

Jólin is a term that refers to Christmas in Iceland. The Icelandic Christmas celebration is a rich tapestry of traditions, many of which are unique to the island nation. The festive period typically begins on December 23rd and lasts until January 6th, also known as Twelfth Night.

Central to Icelandic Christmas are the thirteen Yule Lads, known as Jólasveinarnir. These mischievous figures, offspring of the troll Grýla and her absent husband Leppalúði, descend from the mountains one by one for thirteen nights leading up to Christmas Eve. Each Yule Lad has a distinct personality and a specific kind of mischief they are known for, such as hanging sausages in the rafters, stealing candles, or slamming doors. Children traditionally leave a shoe in their windowsill each night, hoping for a small gift from the Yule Lad who visits.

Christmas Eve, or Aðfangadagur, is the main celebration day in Iceland. Families gather for a large feast, often featuring lamb, ptarmigan, or fermented shark. The evening is usually spent exchanging gifts, attending church services, and enjoying each other's company. Another beloved tradition is the reading of Christmas cards, a significant part of the evening's festivities.

The Christmas season extends beyond Christmas Eve, with the days following also filled with social gatherings and continued celebrations. January 6th marks the end of the Christmas period, celebrated with the departure of the final Yule Lad and often more festivities. The Icelandic approach to Christmas emphasizes family, tradition, and a touch of the supernatural with the enduring tales of the Yule Lads.