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Christmas Book Flood | Recommending reading


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Christmas traditions (Christmas Day)

What is the origin story of the Christmas Boat Procession in Venice?

The Christmas Boat Procession in Venice, known as “La Festa di San Nicolò,” is a unique and centuries-old tradition in the city. While it may not be as well-known as some other Christmas traditions, it has a rich history rooted in the maritime culture of Venice. Here’s the origin story and some interesting anecdotes about the Christmas Boat Procession in Venice and how this tradition is used to celebrate Christmas:

Aerial view of Venice, Italy
  • Historical maritime city: Venice, Italy, is a city built on islands in a lagoon, and its history and culture are closely tied to the sea. Venice has a strong maritime tradition, and waterways are a central part of the city’s identity.
  • Patron Saint: San Nicolò (Saint Nicholas) is the patron saint of Venice and has a special place in the hearts of Venetians. Saint Nicholas is also the patron saint of sailors, making him particularly significant in a city that relied on maritime trade.

Interesting anecdotes about the Christmas Boat Procession

San Nicolò di Lido, Venice
  • The tradition: The Christmas Boat Procession in Venice is an annual event that takes place on 6 December, which is the feast day of San Nicolò. It typically includes a procession of boats, gondolas, and other watercraft adorned with festive decorations, lights, and nativity scenes.
  • Statue of San Nicolò: A statue of San Nicolò is central to the procession. The statue, often housed in the church of San Nicolò di Lido, is brought out and placed on a boat for a ceremonial voyage around the Venetian lagoon. The statue represents the saint’s protection of sailors and the city.
  • Nativity scenes: Many of the boats in the procession carry elaborate nativity scenes, adding a religious and festive element to the event. These nativity scenes are often beautifully crafted and illuminated.
  • Lighted candles: Participants in the procession typically carry lighted candles, creating a stunning visual spectacle as they glide along the city’s canals and lagoon. The flickering candlelight adds to the enchanting atmosphere.
  • Historic significance: The Christmas Boat Procession in Venice has been taking place for centuries and is a testament to the city’s rich maritime history and devotion to its patron saint, San Nicolò.
  • Community involvement: The procession involves not only religious institutions but also local communities, boat owners, and residents of Venice who come together to celebrate and participate in this cherished tradition.
  • Unique Venetian experience: The Christmas Boat Procession is a unique way to experience Venice during the holiday season. It provides a different perspective of the city, as it takes place on the water, away from the crowded streets and squares.
  • Cultural preservation: Efforts are made to preserve and pass on this tradition to future generations. It is a symbol of Venetian identity and a reminder of the city’s strong ties to the sea.
The Christmas Boat Procession, Venice

In a nutshell

The Christmas Boat Procession in Venice is a beautiful and culturally significant event that combines religious devotion, maritime heritage, and festive celebration. It offers locals and visitors alike a chance to experience the magic of Venice during the holiday season while honoring the patron saint of the city and its seafaring history.

Coda

Here are the Yule Lads, imagined by DALL-E 3, taking part in the Christmas Boat Procession by sailing on a gondola on the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy.


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Departure of the Yule Lads

The departure of the thirteen Icelandic Yule Lads, known as “Jólasveinarnir“, from Icelandic houses and communities occurs gradually between 25 December and 6 January. This period marks the end of their annual visitation. Here’s an overview of how their departure unfolds:

  • Christmas Day (25 December): The departure of the Yule Lads begins on Christmas Day, which is a significant holiday in Iceland. Traditionally, it’s believed that the Yule Lads leave the homes and communities where they’ve been causing mischief and return to their mountain abode, known as “Dimmuborgir,” which translates to “Dark Castles.” Families may leave out special treats for the Yule Lads as a gesture of farewell and gratitude.
  • 26- 31 December: Over the next several days following Christmas, the Yule Lads gradually make their way back to their mountain hideaways. Each night, one of the Yule Lads departs. The order of departure is generally the reverse of their arrival, with the last to arrive being the first to leave.
  • New Year’s Eve (31 December): On New Year’s Eve, it’s customary to celebrate with fireworks, as Icelanders believe that lighting fireworks helps to drive away the last remnants of the Yule Lads and other supernatural beings who may still be lingering.
  • 6 January (Þrettándinn – Epiphany): On Þrettándinn, Icelanders bid farewell to the holiday season. This day is marked by various customs and festivities, including bonfires and parades. It is believed that on this day, the Yule Lads return to their remote mountain homes, and the holiday season is officially over.

As the Yule Lads gradually retreat to their mountain home, and the atmosphere in Icelandic communities shifts from the playful mischief of the Yule Lads to the more solemn and reflective celebration of the New Year and Epiphany. The departure of the Yule Lads marks the transition from the festive holiday season to the beginning of the new year in Iceland, with each Yule Lad bidding farewell until their return the following December.


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The day after Jólabókaflóðið

Jólabókaflóðið (The Christmas Book Flood) is of course a beloved Icelandic tradition that takes place on Christmas Eve, rather than Christmas Day. On Christmas Eve, Icelanders exchange books as gifts, and it’s a cherished part of their holiday celebrations. Here’s how the tradition typically unfolds:

Reading together in front of a fire
  • Book giving: On the night of 24 December, it’s customary for Icelanders to exchange books as gifts with their loved ones. The books are typically wrapped and placed under the Christmas tree.
  • Reading together: After the exchange of books, it’s common for families to spend the evening reading. Many people enjoy a peaceful night reading their newly received books, often accompanied by hot cocoa or a festive drink and some chocolates.
  • Quiet celebration: Christmas Eve in Iceland is a quiet and contemplative time. Many businesses close early, and the streets become deserted as families gather to celebrate in the warmth of their homes.

While Jólabókaflóðið is the main book-related tradition associated with Christmas in Iceland, Christmas Day itself typically involves more traditional celebrations, including attending church services, enjoying a special holiday meal, and spending time with family and friends. It’s a time for reflection, relaxation, and festive gatherings, much like in many other countries.

Jolabokaflod CIC exists to promote Jólabókaflóðið everywhere else around the world, to ensure everyone has the chance to participate in this wonderful Icelandic tradition. Here are the Yule Lads, enjoying Jólabókaflóðið by opening their presents and reading the books they receive on Christmas Eve.


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Christmas traditions (Advent calendar, Day 24)

What is the origin story of Santa Runs?

Santa Run in a park

Santa Runs, also known as Santa Dashes or Santa Fun Runs, are festive events that involve participants dressing up as Santa Claus and running a designated route, often for charitable purposes. While the specific origin of Santa Runs is not well-documented, they are part of a broader tradition of holiday-themed fun runs that have become popular worldwide. Here’s an overview of the origin and some interesting anecdotes about Santa Runs and how this tradition is used to celebrate Christmas:

  • Emergence of fun runs: Fun runs, which are non-competitive running events designed for enjoyment rather than competition, have been a popular activity in many countries for decades. These runs often have themes and costumes, and they are organized for various purposes, including charity fundraising.
  • Santa costume element: Santa Runs incorporate the festive and recognisable image of Santa Claus into the fun run concept. Participants don Santa Claus costumes, complete with red suits, white beards, and hats, as they run or walk the designated course.

Interesting anecdotes about Santa Runs

Runners in different Christmas costumes
  • Charitable fundraising: Many Santa Runs are organised as charity fundraisers, with participants required to register and pay a fee, a portion of which goes to support charitable causes. These events often raise money for local charities, food banks, or other community initiatives.
  • World records: Santa Runs have gained popularity as opportunities to set world records for the largest gathering of people dressed as Santa Claus. Cities around the world compete to break these records each year, adding a sense of competition and camaraderie to the events.
  • All ages and abilities: Santa Runs are inclusive events that welcome participants of all ages and abilities. Families often participate together, and the runs typically have different categories to accommodate walkers, joggers and serious runners.
  • Variety of distances: While 5 km (3.1 miles) runs are common, Santa Runs can vary in distance. Some are shorter, family-friendly events, while others are longer and more challenging. The choice of distance often depends on the organizers’ goals and the preferences of the participants.
  • Festive atmosphere: Santa Runs create a festive atmosphere with holiday music, decorations and sometimes even snow machines (in regions where it doesn’t naturally snow). The sense of joy and merriment is a hallmark of these events.
  • Costume creativity: Participants often get creative with their Santa Claus costumes. Some opt for traditional Santa attire, while others put unique twists on their costumes, adding elements like tutus, holiday-themed accessories, or creative variations on Santa’s appearance.
  • Global participation: Santa Runs have become a global phenomenon, with events taking place in cities and communities around the world. Major cities often have their own annual Santa Run, attracting thousands of participants. In coastal areas, a variation on the theme is to go surfing dressed as Santa Claus.
  • Community engagement: Santa Runs are not only about running but also about community engagement and coming together to celebrate the holiday season. Many runs encourage spectators to cheer on participants and join in the festive spirit.

In a nutshell

Surfing Santas

Santa Runs have become a beloved and light-hearted way to celebrate the holiday season, promote physical activity, and raise funds for charitable causes. Whether it’s for fun, fitness, or fundraising, participants in Santa Runs enjoy the festive spirit of the event and the opportunity to spread holiday cheer while staying active.

Coda

DALL-E 3 today imagines the Yule Lads taking part in a Santa Run in Reykjavík alongside many other people dressed in Santa Claus costumes.


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Arrival of the thirteenth Yule Lad

Kertasníkir

Kertasníkir is also known as “Candle Beggar” or “Candle Stealer” in English. He is one of the Yule Lads, known as “Jólasveinarnir” in Icelandic. Kertasníkir makes his visit to Icelandic households on 24 December and is the final Yule Lad to arrive. His name reflects his unique behaviour. Let’s explore the specific characteristics and folklore associated with Kertasníkir:

This Yule Lad is often depicted as a somewhat solemn and dark figure, which is fitting for his role as the last visitor. His appearance suggests his association with the darkest night of the year.

Kertasníkir‘s mischievous behaviour revolves around candles. He is known for sneaking into houses on Christmas Eve to steal candles. In olden times, candles were a precious source of light during the long, dark Icelandic winters. Kertasníkir‘s goal is to take these candles, possibly leaving the household in darkness or depriving them of their Christmas candlelight.

Kertasníkir collects candles by secretly taking them from the homes he visits. The more candles he can take, the darker he leaves the house.


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Christmas traditions (Advent calendar, Day 23)

What is the origin story of Simbang Gabi?

Simbang Gabi, which means “Night Mass” in Filipino, is a cherished Christmas tradition in the Philippines. This novena (sequence of nine) dawn Masses leading up to Christmas Eve is a unique and significant part of Filipino festive celebrations. Here’s the origin story and some interesting anecdotes about Simbang Gabi and how this tradition is used to celebrate Christmas:

“Misa de Gallo” in Manila, Philippines (Reuters)
  • Spanish influence: Simbang Gabi can trace its origins to the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines, which lasted for over 300 years. The tradition was introduced by Spanish friars who wanted to accommodate the agrarian schedules of Filipino farmers. The early morning Masses allowed farmers to attend before going to work in the fields.
  • Aguinaldo Mass: Simbang Gabi was initially called “Aguinaldo Masses” or “Misa de Gallo” (Rooster’s Mass) because it was traditionally held at dawn, symbolising the coming of the new day and the rooster’s crow. The custom of attending these pre-dawn Masses spread rapidly throughout the Philippines.

Interesting anecdotes about Simbang Gabi

Parish leaders with parols in church (Crosscut)
  • Nine mornings: Simbang Gabi consists of a series of nine Masses celebrated on consecutive days, usually starting on 16 December and culminating on Christmas Eve, 24 December. This nine-day novena is a significant spiritual preparation for Christmas.
  • Diverse traditions: Simbang Gabi is celebrated with regional and local variations throughout the Philippines. Each region may have its unique customs and practices associated with the Masses.
  • Filipino cuisine: One of the highlights of Simbang Gabi is the availability of Filipino delicacies and treats sold outside churches and along the streets, especially after the Masses. Vendors offer a wide variety of food, including bibingka (rice cake), puto bumbong (purple rice cake), tsokolate (chocolate), and various rice and noodle dishes.
  • Community and fellowship: Simbang Gabi brings communities together. Families, friends and neighbours attend the Masses as a group, fostering a sense of togetherness and solidarity. It is also a time for social gatherings and reunions.
  • Dress code: It is customary for attendees to wear their best clothes to Simbang Gabi Masses. Many people choose to wear traditional Filipino attire, such as the barong tagalog for men and the Filipiniana dress for women.
  • Christmas music: Traditional Filipino Christmas carols, known as “Simbang Gabi” songs, are sung during the Masses. These songs add a festive and joyous atmosphere to the novena.
  • Midnight Mass: Simbang Gabi culminates with the Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, known as “Misa de Gallo.” This is when Christmas officially begins in the Philippines, and it is one of the most well-attended Masses of the year.
  • Candlelit processions: In some regions, candlelit processions and parades are held after the Masses, creating a luminous and visually stunning spectacle.
  • Faith and devotion: Simbang Gabi is not only a cultural tradition but also a deeply religious and spiritual experience for Filipinos. It is a time for prayer, reflection, and strengthening one’s faith.
Traditional food at Simbang Gabi

In a nutshell

Simbang Gabi is a beautiful and spiritually enriching tradition that captures the essence of Filipino Christmas. It is a time of devotion, community, and celebration that prepares the faithful to welcome the birth of Jesus Christ on Christmas Day.

Coda

In order to capture the exuberance of Simbang Gabi in the Philippines, DALL-E 3 imagines the Yule Lads wearing traditional clothes walking in a Manila street full of street vendors selling traditional food.


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Arrival of the twelfth Yule Lad

Ketkrókur

Ketkrókur, also known as “Meat-Hook” in English, is one of the Icelandic Yule Lads who makes his visit to houses and communities on 23 December. The Yule Lads are a group of 13 mischievous characters, each with their unique personalities and behaviour. Let’s explore the specific characteristics and folklore associated with Ketkrókur.

Ketkrókur is often depicted as a tall and menacing figure with a long, curved hook, resembling a meat hook. His appearance reflects his penchant for stealing meat.

His naughty behaviour centres around his love of meat. During his nighttime visits to Icelandic homes, he uses his hook to steal meat, especially any meat that may be hanging or stored in a larder or pantry. His goal is to savour the meaty delicacies, leaving the family without their intended culinary delights.

Ketkrókur is known for his skill in silently and skillfully snatching meat, making him a proficient meat thief.


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Christmas traditions (Advent calendar, Day 22)

What is the origin story of nisse and tomte?

A nisse (Denmark and Norway), also known as a tomte (Sweden), and a tonttu (Finland), is a mythical creature with a long history in Scandinavian folklore. These small, humanoid beings are associated typically with the rural countryside and are considered guardians of the farmsteads. The tradition of the tomte or nisse is deeply rooted in the cultures of Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Norway. While they are not directly associated with Christmas celebrations worldwide, they do have some connections to the holiday season in the Scandinavian countries. Here is the origin story and characteristics of these gnome-like creatures.

Living in a barn
  • Ancient beliefs: The concept of nisse or tomte has its origins in ancient Norse and Scandinavian folklore. These beings were believed to be protective spirits of the farm and household, ensuring the well-being of the family and livestock.
  • Appearance: Nisse and tomte are often depicted as small, bearded men wearing traditional Scandinavian clothing, including a pointed red hat. They are usually portrayed as friendly and kind-hearted but can also be mischievous if they feel neglected or disrespected.

Interesting anecdotes about nisse and tomte

Rice pudding offering
  • Christmas connections: While the nisse/tomte tradition is not directly tied to Christmas, it has become intertwined with holiday customs in Scandinavia. In Sweden and Denmark, it is common to include a nisse or tomato figurine or ornament as part of Christmas decorations. These figurines are often placed on Christmas trees or around the home.
  • Rice pudding offering: In Denmark, it is a tradition to leave a bowl of rice pudding or porridge out for the nisse or tomte on Christmas Eve as a gesture of goodwill. It is believed that the nisse or tomte would turn mischievous or even angry if this offering is neglected.
  • Gift-giver role: In some regions of Scandinavia, the nisse or tomte is associated with gift-giving during the holiday season. Children may believe that the nisse/tomte brings them gifts on Christmas Eve. This role is similar to that of Santa Claus in other cultures.
  • Guardian of the farm: Traditionally, the nisse and tomte were considered the guardians of farms and their inhabitants. Farmers would leave offerings of food, such as porridge, in the barn to ensure the nisse/tomte protection and goodwill.
  • Farm superstitions: Farmers believed that it was essential to treat the nisse and tomte with respect and kindness. They would avoid using harsh language, refrain from playing pranks, and make sure the nisse/tomte had a comfortable place to stay within the farm, often a small nook or barn loft.
  • Modern interpretations: Today, the nisse/tomte tradition remains alive in Scandinavian countries, and these creatures are celebrated as part of the cultural heritage. Modern interpretations include figurines, ornaments and decorations that are popular during the holiday season.
Modern figurine

In a nutshell

While the nisse/tomte tradition is deeply rooted in Scandinavian folklore and customs, it has influenced some Christmas practices in the region. These mythical beings, with their distinctive red hats and benevolent yet mischievous nature, add a touch of whimsy and cultural richness to the holiday season in Scandinavia.

Coda

Today, DALL-E 3 imagines the Yule Lads disguised as nisse and tomte, guardian a farmstead nestled in an Icelandic landscape.


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Arrival of the eleventh Yule Lad

Gáttaþefur

Gáttaþefur, also known as “Doorway-Sniffer” in English, is one of the Yule Lads; he makes his visit to Icelandic households and communities on 22 December. The Yule Lads are a group of 13 mischievous characters, each with their unique personalities and behaviour. Let’s explore the specific characteristics and folklore associated with Gáttaþefur:

Gáttaþefur is often depicted as a peculiar figure with an elongated and prominent nose, which reflects his unique ability to sniff out his favorite treats.

His primary mischievous behaviour revolves around his keen sense of smell. He is known for his habit of sniffing around doorways and windows to detect the aroma of traditional Icelandic holiday bread called “laufabrauð” or “leaf bread.” When he detects the tempting scent of this crispy, paper-thin bread, he can’t resist entering the household to enjoy a bite.

Gáttaþefur‘s exceptional sense of smell allows him to locate “laufabrauð” even if it’s well hidden. He will find a way to follow the tantalising aroma to its source.


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Christmas traditions (Advent calendar, Day 21)

What is the origin story of the Elf on the Shelf?

The Elf on the Shelf is a relatively modern Christmas tradition that originated in the United States. It was created by Carol Aebersold and her daughter Chanda Bell, who wrote a children’s book titled The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition. The book was self-published in 2005 and has since become a popular holiday tradition. Here’s the origin story and some interesting anecdotes about the Elf on the Shelf and how this tradition is used to celebrate Christmas:

Book front cover
  • The book’s creation: The idea for the Elf on the Shelf tradition was inspired by Carol Aebersold’s family tradition of an elf who would visit during the Christmas season. She and her daughter Chanda Bell decided to turn this family tradition into a children’s book to share with others.
  • The story: The Elf on the Shelf tells the story of Santa Claus sending Scout Elves to children’s homes to watch over them during the Christmas season. The elves return to the North Pole each night to report to Santa about the children’s behaviour and then return to a different spot in the house before morning.

Interesting anecdotes about the Elf on the Shelf

Elves toasting marshmallows
  • Scout Elf’s arrival: In many households, the Elf on the Shelf tradition begins with the arrival of the Scout Elf in early December. Parents often stage a grand arrival, and children are encouraged to give the elf a name.
  • Daily elf moves: The central aspect of the tradition involves the Scout Elf moving to a different location in the house each night. Children wake up and search for the elf’s new hiding spot, adding an element of excitement to each day during Advent leading up to Christmas.
  • Good behaviour: The Elf on the Shelf is often used to encourage good behaviour in children. The idea is that the elf is reporting to Santa, and children are more likely to be on their best behaviour to ensure they make it onto Santa’s “nice” list.
  • Letters to Santa: Some families incorporate letter-writing into the tradition, with children leaving notes for the Scout Elf to deliver to Santa, expressing their Christmas wishes and gratitude.
  • Elf adventures: Many families get creative with the Elf on the Shelf’s daily locations and poses. The elf might be found engaged in playful activities, reading books, baking mini cookies, or even participating in tiny adventures.
  • North Pole breakfast: Some families kick off the Elf on the Shelf tradition with a North Pole breakfast, where they serve festive foods and the elf is revealed to have returned for the holiday season.
  • Elf farewell: On Christmas Eve, the Scout Elf typically returns to the North Pole with Santa Claus. Families often say farewell to their elf with gratitude and anticipation for their return the following year.
  • Expanding traditions: The Elf on the Shelf tradition has expanded to include various themed elf accessories, clothing and props, allowing families to customise the experience.
  • Controversy: While the tradition is beloved by many families, it has also faced some criticism. Some argue that it promotes surveillance and behavioural control, while others simply find it tiresome to come up with daily elf scenarios.
North Pole breakfast

In a nutshell

The Elf on the Shelf tradition has gained widespread popularity in the United States and beyond, becoming a cherished part of many families’ holiday celebrations. It combines storytelling, creativity, and the magic of Christmas to create a unique and interactive experience for children during the holiday season.

Coda

Today, DALL-E 3 has imagined the Yule Lads as hybrid Scout Elves, taking part in the new Advent tradition in American households of the Elf on the Shelf.