Legend of the Yule Lads - Mischief and Magic of Iceland's 13 Father Christmases

Описание: In Iceland, children experience the joy of not just one, but 13 Father Christmases known as the Yule Lads. These jolly yet mischievous characters take turns visiting kids during the 13 nights leading up to Christmas. On each of these nights, children place one of their shoes on the windowsill. If the kids have been good, the Yule Lad will leave candy; otherwise, the disapproval is unmistakable, as the shoes are filled with rotting potatoes.

Similar to Snow White's Seven Dwarfs, each Yule Lad possesses a distinct personality. While their names were a subject of interpretation and debate until recently, here’s the list of the 13 Icelandic Yule Lad’s names, in the order they’re said to come down from the mountains:

Stekkjastaur (Sheep-Cote Clod) on December 12th – He sneaks into barns to steal milk from sheep.

Giljagaur (Gully Gawk) on December 13th – This Yule Lad has a taste for cow’s milk and he’ll take it straight from the barn.

Stúfur (Stubby) on December 14th – The shortest of the lads, he swipes leftover food from frying pans.

Þvörusleikir (Spoon Licker) on December 15th – He licks spoons, of course.

Pottasleikir (Pot Licker) on December 16th – This guy will steal unwashed pots from the kitchen so he can lick them clean.

Askasleikir (Bowl Licker) on December 17th – He snatches bowls out from under beds and gobbles up any morsels of food.

Hurðaskellir (Door Slammer) on December 18th – He slams doors, and he’ll do this all night if he finds any open.

Skyrgámur (Skyr Gobbler) on December 19th– He’s ravenous for skyr, Icelandic yoghurt, and will pinch any that's up for grabs.

Bjúgnakrækir (Sausage Swiper) on December 20th – Hide your sausages or this guy will eat them.

Gluggagægir (Window Peeper) on December 21st – He’ll peep through windows in the hope he can steal something.

Gáttaþefur (Door Sniffer) on December 22nd – You’ll find this large-nosed lad sniffing doorways in pursuit of baked goods.

Ketrókur (Meat Hook) on December 23rd – He’s hungry for meat, so lock up your lamb chops!

Kertasníkir (Candle Beggar) on December 24th – Finally, the last of the Yule Lads is known for making off with candles.

As the Yule Lads embark on their nightly escapades, Icelandic children eagerly anticipate the whimsical surprises that await them. The tradition not only adds a touch of enchantment to the holiday season but also underscores the importance of kindness and good behavior.

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