Iceland celebrates Christmas with a unique blend of traditions that highlight its cultural heritage and natural environment. From the extensive use of Christmas lights to traditional songs and folklore, Icelandic festivities stand out for their distinctive charm.
Icelanders are known for decorating their homes with Christmas lights early in December, maintaining them well into the new year to lift spirits during the dark winter months. The tradition dates back to when candles were the primary source of decoration, symbolizing warmth and festivity in harsh winters.
A key feature of Icelandic Christmas is the Yule Lads, 13 mischievous figures from folklore who arrive one by one leading up to Christmas Eve. "The Yulelads roam around the floor/With a golden stick in their hand/Their mother sweeps the floor/And spanks them with a rod," reads a traditional carol about these characters. These tales are deeply rooted in Iceland's isolated past, where long winters gave rise to vivid stories.