Purinernas

Purinernas refers to a traditional Swedish folk custom that originated in the 19th century, particularly in the province of Småland. The term itself is a playful corruption of the word "purren," meaning "to purr," and is associated with a lighthearted, often humorous tradition involving the act of pretending to purr like a cat.

The custom typically takes place during the Christmas season, particularly around the 13th night (the night of December 13th, known as *Lussekattsdagen* or St. Lucia’s Day). Participants, often children, would visit neighbors, friends, or family members, sometimes dressed in costumes or wearing masks, and perform exaggerated purring sounds. They would often accompany this with playful antics, such as mimicking a cat’s movements or even attempting to climb walls or trees in a comical manner. The act was meant to be whimsical rather than scary, though some accounts describe it as a form of mischief or prank.

Purinernas was particularly popular in rural areas and was sometimes linked to older pagan or folk traditions, possibly as a way to ward off evil spirits or celebrate the winter solstice. Over time, the custom faded in many parts of Sweden but remains a nostalgic part of Småland’s cultural heritage. Today, it is occasionally revived during local festivals or Christmas celebrations as a quirky reminder of Sweden’s folk traditions.

While Purinernas is not widely practiced today, it serves as an example of how regional customs have shaped Swedish holiday folklore. The tradition reflects a blend of humor, community, and the enduring appeal of playful, seasonal rituals.