Yule Fest Event Information
Yule Fest in Junction City, Oregon, this December 6th-7th will…
10 ways to help keep the holidays warm and bright
The Scandinavian culture has a fair amount of Christmas traditions. We can’t cover them all in one year, but here are 10 Scandinavian Christmas traditions you could explore this season. If you are finding peace in simplicity, handcrafting decorations, cooking simple butter filled treats, or enjoy staying in touch with nature, then you’re already encompassing the Scandinavian spirit and may love some of the traditions below!
The long, dark days in Scandinavia can make a season bleak, but the Scandinavian culture has found a way to persevere through what could be a lengthy season. Their secret, community! It is common to visit friends and family in a cozy and intentional atmosphere to craft, or share a hot mug of glögg. The winter season in the Pacific Northwest and Scandinavia are similar, where dark days can feel extensively dreary, but they don’t have to if you find community fulfilling and joy in traditions.
Let’s jump into some Scandinavian fun!
Advent Candles
One tradition is observing Advent by lighting one candle each evening on the four Sundays of the Advent season. Light the first candle, which represents hope on the first Sunday! Light one more candle on each subsequent Sunday until all four are burning bright. The second candle represents peace, third is joy and fourth is love. Advent candles can be any shape, size, or color. Candles are often found in a row, or in a wreath usually crafted and handmade. Advent can be as simple, or as detailed as you like.
Wheat Ornaments
Scandinavian culture is known for using available resources. This is reflected in the tradition of handmade wheat ornaments. These ornaments are a longstanding tradition in the Scandinavian countries. Most popular Sweden, Denmark and Norway, but are found in other Nordic countries. Many decorate their homes, gates, trees and other various nooks and crannies with these uniquely rustic ornaments that are iconically Scandinavian. The tradition of straw ornaments was born out of a much older tradition known as The Remembrance of the Birds. Farmers would bless their livestock with a healthy portion of fodder, but keep the last sheaf to make decorations often used outdoors. The hope is for birds and other animals to eat it and be blessed. Straw ornaments are quintessentially Scandinavian. They are humble, elegant, intricate and reflect the land.
Aebleskiever
A spherical pancake like treat, æbleskive recipes are often handed down through generations and many debates can breakout on what the appropriate garnish, or dipping condiments should be served alongside Aebleskiver. Though, jam is usually expected and universally accepted as a dipping option, powdered sugar, applesauce and others can be a topic of argument.
Traditionally a Christmas season treat, Aebleskiver are delicious any time of the year. It may take a special pan to make these lovely baked balls, but it is well worth the investment and makes a nice gift for a special occasion. Pans with heavy bottoms with the most surface contact are recommended. Many recipes can be found online, or you can find our recipe here: https://junctioncityscandia.org/aebleskiver-recipe/
Pepparkakshus
Gingerbread house, Pepparkakshus in Swedish, are a common American holiday activity, but the origin of this craft-meets-baking-pastime is debated. Many believe Germany is where it all started, but it grew in popularity in Sweden. Traditionally, the art of gingerbread house crafting is a time for family bonding. Houses are found adorned in icing and candies. They can be minimally or extremely detailed, the gingerbread used is often homemade, but can also be purchased, and the structures can take a significant amount of time to complete. Pepparkakshus are a sweet reminder of home and togetherness.
Julbocken
(Yule Goat)
Originally rooted in Norse mythology, the goat is connected to Thor and has long been a symbol of meaning in Scandinavia. In the transition away from paganism, the straw goat was known to have the invisible spirits that would come about during the Christmas season to ensure the preparations were done correctly. In the last century, the Yule Goat has transformed into a symbol of gift giving and is often accompanied by Jultomten, or the Scandinavian version of Santa.
Glögg
A go to warm beverage is needed for a cold winter season. One traditional drink of Scandinavia is glögg, a warm mulled wine. A dark, citrus and spiced wine, it is often served alongside gingersnaps, or Aebleskiver if you’re in Denmark. Non-alcoholic versions can be found, or punchy renditions with the addition of a Danish liquor, Aquavit, can be found during Christmas time in Scandinavia.
St. Lucia and Star Boy
St. Lucia of Syracuse is an Italian martyr from the 4th century. Scandinavian countries observe this feast day with the tradition of a St Lucia bun, which is a saffron bun topped with coarse sugar. Young ladies wear a crown of evergreens and candles. Boys wear tall white hats with gold stars. All the children dress in white gowns honoring her purity in faith. St. Lucia procession is held throughout Sweden and other Nordic countries. Children in white sing hymns to honor her life. St. Lucia was known for her compassion to the poor and bravery in persecution. Her processional song can be found online.
Not faith based? You can still bring in this tradition by making a fun crown with candles (battery operated is best) and acknowledge one of the darkest nights of the year, December 13th. Some have a tradition of staying awake through the night and eating delicious food, including saffron buns.
Little Christmas Eve
The name Little Christmas Eve is a perfect description for December 23rd. In Scandinavia it is customary to stay in with close family and friends and celebrate the night with good company. Christmas music, decorating Christmas cookies and good conversation is what Little Christmas Eve is all about. A uniquely Scandinavian tradition on Little Christmas Eve is watching a comical black and white short film, Grevinnen and Hovmesteren, in English- Dinner for One. YouTube has many options for watching this funny Scandinavian classic.
Risalamande
(Rice Porridge)
Traditionally served on Christmas Eve, risalamande is a form of rice pudding. It is often leftover chilled rice porridge with folded whipped cream topped with a cherry sauce. A whole almond is hidden into the mixture, and whomever receives the almond “wins.” There are many renditions for the prize winner. Opening the first holiday gift, picking a board game to play, or having good luck all year are some of the fun traditions behind the almond winner. Homemade, or store bought, this tradition can be quickly adopted and is fun for all ages.
Jultomten
On Decemeber 24th Christmas Eve, gifts are delivered in person by a Jultomten, whose description are similar to a gnome, a little man with a white beard and red pointy hat. The story behind Jultomten, who is much like Santa Claus is known for bringing gifts, but rather than cookies left as an offering, the Jultomten expects porridge with a healthy portion of butter.
A Yule Goat (Julbocken) is often seen with Jultomten as they are both characters in the tale of Scandinavian gift giving. Many ornaments and wooden carved decorations of a Jultomten can be seen displayed at Christmas in Scandinavian homes. There are many fun crafts instructions found online to make Jultomten and could be a fun holiday activity.
