Unconventional Norwegian Christmas Customs- A Journey into the Odd and Enchanting Traditions of the North
Have you ever wondered what goes on during Christmas in Norway? Well, prepare to be surprised, because Norwegian Christmas traditions are not your average holiday customs. From peculiar decorations to unique festivities, there’s a lot that sets them apart from the rest. Let’s dive into the weird Norwegian Christmas traditions that will leave you scratching your head in awe.
The first thing that sets Norwegian Christmas traditions apart is the “Julenatt,” or Christmas Eve. While most people around the world celebrate Christmas on December 25th, Norwegians start their festive season on the 24th. On this night, families gather to enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner, which often includes “julgrøt” (a rice porridge with saffron and almonds) and “lutfisk” (dried codfish soaked in water and sugar). But wait, there’s more – the dinner is usually followed by a round of “juleøl” (Christmas beer) and a visit from the “jultomte,” the Norwegian version of Santa Claus.
One of the most peculiar Norwegian Christmas traditions is the use of “nisseliljer” (Christmas narcissus). These flowers are believed to bring good luck and are often used to decorate the home. However, they are not just any narcissus; they must be the “Nordic snowdrop,” which is a rare and white flower that blooms in the dead of winter. To find this flower, Norwegians embark on a quest known as “nissejakt,” or “nissesearch,” to locate the elusive narcissus.
Another strange Norwegian Christmas tradition is the “julebukk,” a wooden goat that is carved and decorated by children. The goat is then placed in the living room, and the children must take turns guessing who the goat has chosen as its “julebukk” – a person who will be made fun of or receive a small punishment. This tradition is believed to bring good luck and is a fun way for families to bond during the holiday season.
When it comes to Christmas decorations, Norwegians have a unique way of showcasing their festive spirit. Instead of the traditional red and green colors, they use white, silver, and gold. This is because the white and silver colors represent the snow and ice that cover the country during the winter months. The gold is used to symbolize wealth and prosperity. Another peculiar decoration is the “julestjerne,” or Christmas star, which is a five-pointed star made of paper or fabric that is hung in the windows.
Finally, let’s not forget about the “julekransekake,” a spiral cake that is a staple in Norwegian Christmas celebrations. This cake is often made in advance and can take hours to prepare. It is traditionally decorated with white icing and red, green, and gold sprinkles. The cake is shared among family and friends, symbolizing unity and togetherness.
In conclusion, Norwegian Christmas traditions are indeed weird and wonderful. From the peculiar decorations to the unique festivities, these customs offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the country. So, the next time you think you’ve seen it all when it comes to Christmas, remember the strange and delightful Norwegian traditions that will leave you feeling festive and intrigued.
