Christmas in Iceland is a magical time of year, shaped by unique traditions, cozy celebrations and the arrival of the 13 Yule Lads, Iceland´s mischievous “Santa Clauses.” Starting on December 12th, each night a different Yule Lad visits, leaving small gifts in children´s shoes placed by the window. This tradition is one of the most charming and magical parts of Christmas in Iceland.
Who are the 13 Icelandic Santa Clauses?
The 13 Icelandic Yule Lads (Jólasveinarnir) are unique to Icelandic folklore. Each one has a distinct personality, specific arrival date, name and a unique type of mischief.
Below is the full list with their traditional habits:
- Sheep-Cote Clod (Stekkjastaur): Arrives on December 12th.
- He tries to suckle ewes (female sheep) in farmer’s sheep sheds.
- Gully Gawk (Giljagaur): Arrives on December 13th.
- He hides in gullies and steals foam from buckets of cow milk.
- Stubby (Stúfur): Arrives on December 14th.
- A short lad who steals food from frying pans.
- Spoon Licker (Þvörusleikir): Arrives on December 15th.
- He licks spoons, making them sticky and dirty.
- Pot Scraper (Pottaskefill): Arrives on December 16th.
- He steals unwashed pots and licks them clean.
- Bowl Licker (Askasleikir): Arrives on December 17th.
- He hides under beds and steals bowls of food left there.
- Door Slammer (Hurðaskellir): Arrives on December 18th.
- He stomps around and slams doors, keeping everyone awake.
- Skyr Gobbler (Skyrgámur): Arrives on December 19th.
- He eats up all the skyr, a traditional Icelandic yogurt.
- Sausage Swiper (Bjúgnakrækir): Arrives on December 20th.
- He loves stealing sausages, especially those hung up for smoking.
- Window Peeper (Gluggagægir): Arrives on December 21st.
- He peeks through windows to look for things to steal.
- Door Sniffer (Gáttaþefur): Arrives on December 22nd.
- He has a huge nose and an insatiable appetite for stolen baked goods.
- Meat Hook (Ketkrókur): Arrives on December 23rd.
- He uses a hook to steal meat, particularly smoked lamb.
- Candle Beggar (Kertasníkir): Arrives on December 24th.
- He steals candles, which were once a sought-after item in Iceland.
photo from shopicelandic
Christmas Season in Iceland
Christmas in Iceland lasts longer than in many countries, with celebrations spanning from December 23rd to January 6th. The holiday season blends old traditions, warm gatherings and winter magic.
Important Icelandic Christmas Dates
- December 23 – St. Thorlak´s Day (Þorláksmessa).
- Traditionally celebrated with fermented skate.
- December 24 – Aðfangadagur (Christmas Eve).
- The main celebration with dinner, candlelight and gift-giving.
- December 25-26 – Jóladagur & annar í jólum.
- Relaxed family days during the holiday period, often with Christmas dinners shared by the whole extended family.
- January 6 – Þrettándinn (Thirteenth Day of Christmas).
- Marked by fireworks say goodbye to Christmas.
The Christmas Cat – Jólakötturinn
Another famous Icelandic Christmas tradition is the Christmas Cat, a giant mythical creature said to roam the countryside during the holidays. According to folklore, this enormous cat eats anyone who does not receive new clothes before Christmas Eve. The story once motivated families to finish winter chores and ensure children would receive at least one new garment for Christmas.
Christmas in Iceland – A Magical Holiday Experience
From the playful Yule Lads to Iceland´s glowing Christmas and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights, Christmas in Iceland is truly enchanting. Whether you´re learning about Icelandic folklore, trying traditional festive foods or exploring winter landscapes, the holiday season offers something unforgettable.
FAQ About the Icelandic Yule Lads and Christmas in Iceland
- Who are the 13 Yule Lads in Iceland?
The Yule Lads are Iceland´s traditional “Santa Clauses,” a group of 13 mischievous brothers who visit children in Iceland each night from December 12th to December 24th. They leave small gifts in shoes placed on windowsills.
- What are the names of the 13 Icelandic Santa Clauses?
Their names reflect their behavior, including Spoon Licker, Door Slammer, Skyr Gobbler, Candle Beggar, Meat Hook, Bowl Licker and more. Each lad has a distinct personality rooted in Icelandic folklore.
- When do the Yule Lads arrive?
The first Yule Lad arrives on December 12th and a new one arrives every night until Christmas Eve.
- What do the Yule Lads put in children´s shoes?
Well-behaved children receive small gifts like candy, fruit or simple toys. Naughty children may receive a raw potato as a gentle reminder to behave better.
- What is the Icelandic Christmas Cat?
The Christmas Cat or Jólakötturinn, is a legendary creature said to eat anyone who has not received new clothes before Christmas Eve. It´s an old Icelandic tradition meant to encourage hard work and reward children during the holiday season.
- How long is the Christmas season in Iceland?
The Christmas season starts on December 23rd and lasts until January 6th, covering St. Thorlak´s Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year´s celebrations and Þrettándinn.
- Why is Christmas special in iceland?
Iceland offers a unique mix of folklore, winter landscapes, festive traditions, Christmas markets and even Northern Lights sightings. The combination of culture and nature makes Christmas in Iceland a magical experience.
- Do Icelanders celebrate Christmas on December 24th or 25th?
The main celebration takes place on December 24th. This is when families gather for dinner, open gifts and enjoy the evening. December 25th and 26th are quieter days spent relaxing with family.
- Is Iceland a good place to visit at Christmas?
Yes. Christmas in Iceland is festive and atmospheric, with snowy scenery, cozy decorations, traditional foods, and cultural events. Visitors should be prepared for winter weather and short daylight hours, but the charm of the season makes the experience unforgettable.
Conclusion
Christmas in Iceland is a truly magical time, twinkling lights, wintry landscapes and traditions that date back centuries. Whether you´re learning about the 13 Yule Lads, experiencing Icelandic holiday food or exploring the snowy countryside, the season offers something unforgettable for every traveler.
If you´re planning to visit Iceland around Christmas, remember that winter weather can be unpredictable, with icy roads, snow-covered routes and limited daylight. For a safer and more comfortable self-drive experience, many travelers choose to rent a 4×4 vehicle, which handles Iceland´s winter conditions far better than a 2WD. Renting a reliable cheap 4×4 from Firefly Iceland is an excellent way to stay safe, explore more freely and enjoy the country´s Christmas magic at your own pace.
Gleðileg Jól – Merry Christmas and safe travels!
