Tólftanótt

Tólftanótt is a significant event in Icelandic folklore, marking the transition from the Christmas season into the New Year. It literally translates to "twelfth night" and falls on January 6th, the traditional date for the Epiphany. This night is often considered the final celebration of the Christmas period and the beginning of the New Year's festivities.

In Icelandic tradition, Tólftanótt is a time for concluding the holiday season. While not as widely celebrated or marked with specific rituals as some other holidays, it holds a place in the cultural calendar. Some families might have a final gathering or a special meal to signify the end of Christmas. It is also a period when many believe the elves and hidden people, or Huldufólk, are particularly active before returning to their hidden abodes.

Historically, Tólftanótt was a more prominent marker, signaling the end of a period of feasting and rest. The name "Tólftanótt" itself highlights its role as the twelfth night after Christmas, a common convention in Western Christian traditions. The transition it represents is one of moving from the introspective and celebratory nature of Christmas to the forward-looking anticipation of the New Year. In modern Iceland, while the cultural significance remains, the specific observances can vary greatly among individuals and families, often blending with the broader New Year's celebrations.