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Christmas Book Flood • Reading for Pleasure


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Christmas traditions (Advent calendar, Day 14)

What is the origin story of Caga Tió?

Caga Tió, also known as the “Christmas Log” or “Pooping Log,” is a unique and whimsical Christmas tradition from Catalonia, a region in north-eastern Spain. The tradition is centred around a wooden log with a painted face and legs, often adorned with a red hat. Here’s the origin story and some interesting anecdotes about Caga Tió and how this tradition is used to celebrate Christmas:

Caga Tió
  • Pagan origins: The origins of Caga Tió are believed to be rooted in ancient pagan traditions, particularly in the Catalan region. It was originally a symbol of fecundity and agricultural fertility, representing the idea of receiving good fortune and prosperity in the coming year.
  • Christian incorporation: As with many folk traditions, Caga Tió was later incorporated into Christian celebrations at Christmas, much like other customs in Catalonia. The custom became associated with the Christmas season – its symbolism shifted towards the concepts of sharing and generosity.

Interesting anecdotes about Caga Tió

Feeding Caga Tió
  • Feeding and caring for Caga Tió: In the days leading up to Christmas, families in Catalonia “feed” Caga Tió by placing small gifts, candies, and nuts under its blanket or by covering it with a piece of cloth. Children are often encouraged to take care of Caga Tió and ensure it stays warm and well-fed.
  • Caga Tió song: During the Christmas celebration, family members gather around Caga Tió and sing a traditional song called “Caga Tió.” The song typically includes humorous and playful lyrics about coaxing Caga Tió to “defecate” presents.
  • The beating of Caga Tió: The climax of the celebration occurs when children “beat” Caga Tió with sticks while singing the song. The beating is symbolic and gentle, more akin to tapping than actual violence. This action is believed to help Caga Tió “release” its presents.
  • What Caga Tió “excretes”: After the song and beating, children reach under the blanket or cloth to find the gifts and treats that Caga Tió has “excreted.” These gifts are usually small toys, turron (nougat candies) and sometimes even coins.
  • Caga Tió‘s final “excretion”: The tradition concludes when Caga Tió “defecates” the last and biggest gift, often a figurine or a salted herring, representing the grand finale of the celebration.
  • Variations of Caga Tió: While the basic concept of Caga Tió remains the same, there are regional variations and differences in how the tradition is practised within Catalonia.
  • Modern adaptations: In modern times, Caga Tió has evolved, and commercial versions of the log are available. Some families still make their own traditional Caga Tió logs, while others purchase ready-made ones.
  • Caga Tió in popular culture: Caga Tió has made appearances in popular culture and entertainment in Catalonia and beyond. It is often featured in Christmas displays, advertisements, and events.
Hitting Caga Tio to make him poop presents

In a nutshell

Caga Tió is a lighthearted and distinctive Christmas tradition that adds a touch of whimsy to the holiday season in Catalonia. It encourages family togetherness and reinforces the spirit of giving and sharing, while also connecting with the region’s rich cultural heritage and history.

Coda

In these DALL-E 3 images, the Yule Lads are in Catalonia for Christmas, feeding and beating Caga Tió so that it poops candies and presents. The Lads are depicted in a Catalan/Icelandic hybrid interior location.


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Arrival of the third Yule Lad

Stúfur

On 14 December, the Yule Lad who visits households and communities is called Stúfur, or “Stubby”, “Shorty” or “Stumpy” in English. Each Yule Lad has his own unique characteristics and behavior: Stúfur is no different. Here’s what you need to know about him.

Stúfur is often depicted as the shortest Yule Lad. His diminutive stature is reflected in his name: “Stubby”. He is portrayed typically wearing ragged, old clothing and a tattered hat, giving him a disheveled appearance.

Stúfur is renowned for his love of food, particularly the porridge-like dish called “skyr” in Icelandic. However, his voracious appetite is a cause of mischief. Stúfur is notorious for sneaking into kitchens and stealing food, especially skyr, but he has a particular quirk – he is so short that he has trouble reaching pots and pans on high shelves. He uses a long spoon to overcome this challenge, but he often spills more than he manages to eat. So, households might discover their kitchens in disarray, with spilled food and empty containers when Stúfur pays them a visit.


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Christmas traditions (Advent calendar, Day 13)

What is the origin story of Las Posadas?

Las Posadas is a traditional Christmas celebration primarily observed in Mexico and some other Latin American countries. The term “posada” means “inn” or “lodging” in Spanish, and the celebration reenacts Mary and Joseph’s search for a place to stay in Bethlehem before the birth of Jesus. Here’s the origin story and some interesting anecdotes about Las Posadas and how it is used to celebrate Christmas:

Children in a procession (Britannica)
  • Spanish influence: Las Posadas has its origins in the Spanish colonisation of Latin America. When Spanish missionaries arrived in the Americas in the 16th century, they sought to convert indigenous populations to Christianity. To make the religious teachings more accessible, they incorporated indigenous traditions into Christian rituals and celebrations.
  • Simulating Mary and Joseph’s journey: Las Posadas re-enacts the biblical journey of Mary and Joseph as they sought shelter in Bethlehem. Participants, often in costumes, form a procession that goes from house to house, representing the couple’s search for lodging. At each stop, they sing carols and request shelter, but they are usually turned away until they reach the final “inn.”

Interesting anecdotes about Las Posadas

Traditional food and drink (Cacique Foods)
  • Duration of the celebration: Las Posadas typically begins on 16 December and continues for nine consecutive nights, culminating on 24 December, Christmas Eve. Each night’s procession is known as a “posada.”
  • Traditional songs: Special songs, known as “villancicos,” are sung during Las Posadas. These songs often include lyrics that reflect Mary and Joseph’s journey and their plea for lodging.
  • Piñatas: Piñatas are a common feature of Las Posadas celebrations. The traditional piñata represents the devil, and breaking it symbolizes overcoming evil. Piñatas are filled with candies and small toys that spill out when the piñata is broken.
  • Party and refreshments: After the final “inn” has accepted Mary and Joseph, a party often takes place, featuring traditional foods and drinks such as tamales, ponche (fruit punch), and atole (a warm, thick beverage made from masa or corn flour).
  • Religious significance: Las Posadas is not only a cultural celebration but also a religious one. It serves as a way for communities to come together to reflect on the nativity story and to prepare for the birth of Jesus on Christmas.
  • Community bonding: Las Posadas fosters a strong sense of community and togetherness. Neighbors and friends often participate in the processions and open their homes to fellow community members, reinforcing bonds and solidarity.
  • Variations in Latin America: While Las Posadas is most closely associated with Mexico, variations of the celebration exist in other Latin American countries, each with its unique customs and traditions.
  • Modern adaptations: In some urban areas, Las Posadas processions have taken on a more modern form, with participants riding in cars or buses rather than walking from house to house. However, the core elements of the celebration, including singing, prayer and fellowship remain intact.
Hitting a traditional piñata (Milenio)

In a nutshell

Las Posadas is a meaningful and festive Christmas tradition that combines cultural heritage with religious devotion. It serves as a way for communities to come together, reflect on the nativity story, and prepare for the joyous celebration of the birth of Jesus.

Coda

Today’s prompt allowed DALL-3 to really flex its muscles. I asked the image AI generator to show the Yule Lads in Mexico for Christmas, taking part in a Las Posadas street procession where a few of the Lads are hitting a traditional piñata. I requested a backdrop of a Mexican/Icelandic hybrid landscape in a village. Here are the results.


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Arrival of the second Yule Lad

Giljagaur

The Yule Lad who visits Icelandic households on 13 December is called Giljagaur, which translates to “Gully Gawk” in English. Here are the unique set of characteristics and behaviours associated wit.

Giljagaur is often depicted as a tall and skinny figure with a somewhat hunched back. He wears a grayish-white or light blueish robe and is known for being somewhat creepy in appearance.

Giljagaur’s main mischievous behavior revolves around the act of stealthily sneaking into cowsheds to steal milk from the cows. He is particularly interested in the frothy, creamy part of the milk called “gil” in Icelandic, from which he gets his name: “Giljagaur.” He is said to have an affinity for fresh milk, going to great lengths to obtain it.

However, Giljagaur is generally considered one of the shyer, more timid Yule Lads. He prefers to stay out of sight and avoids direct confrontation with humans.


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Christmas traditions (Advent calendar, Day 12)

What is the origin story of KFC Christmas?

KFC Christmas (also known in its long form as Kentucky Fried Chicken Christmas) is a unique and somewhat unexpected Christmas tradition that originated in Japan. Here’s the story behind how KFC Christmas came about:

Sunburst KFC Christmas advertising in Japan
  • Early promotion in Japan: The tradition of KFC Christmas began in Japan in the 1970s. At the time, Japan did not have a strong tradition of celebrating Christmas, which was seen as a foreign holiday. KFC saw an opportunity to introduce its brand and products to the Japanese market by associating them with Christmas.
  • The “Kurisumasu ni wa kentakkii!” campaign: In 1974, KFC Japan launched a marketing campaign with the slogan “Kurisumasu ni wa kentakkii!” which translates to “Kentucky for Christmas!” The campaign promoted KFC’s fried chicken as a special Christmas meal, with an emphasis on sharing and celebration.
  • Success and continued tradition: The marketing campaign was a massive success, and the idea of having KFC for Christmas caught on quickly in Japan. It became a popular tradition for families to order KFC chicken buckets for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.

Interesting anecdotes about KFC Christmas

Colonel Sanders with a Japanese twist
  • Pre-ordering KFC: Due to the popularity of KFC Christmas in Japan, it’s common for people to place their orders well in advance, sometimes weeks ahead of Christmas. KFC locations may even offer special Christmas-themed meal packages.
  • Festive packaging: KFC Japan often packages its Christmas meals in special holiday-themed packaging to enhance the festive atmosphere.
  • Christmas party barrels: One of the most popular items during KFC Christmas in Japan is the “Christmas party barrel,” which includes a variety of fried chicken pieces, side dishes, and even a Christmas cake.
  • Colonel Sanders as Santa: During the Christmas season, Colonel Sanders, the founder of KFC, is sometimes dressed up as Santa Claus in advertisements and decorations at KFC locations in Japan.
  • Promotional merchandise: KFC Japan has occasionally released limited-edition Christmas-themed merchandise, such as ornaments and collectibles featuring Colonel Sanders in holiday attire.
  • Global spread: While KFC Christmas is most closely associated with Japan, the tradition has also been embraced in other countries, especially in some Asian nations. In these places, people may enjoy KFC as part of their Christmas celebrations.
  • Alternative to home cooking: KFC Christmas has become a convenient alternative to cooking a traditional Christmas meal at home, especially for busy families.
  • KFC Charity: In some locations, KFC Christmas promotions include charitable initiatives, such as providing meals for those in need during the holiday season.
Dressing up for a KFC dinner

In a nutshell

KFC Christmas in Japan is a testament to the power of effective marketing and the adaptability of holiday traditions. What started as a promotional campaign has become a beloved and enduring Christmas tradition for many in Japan, offering a unique way to celebrate the holiday season with family and friends over a bucket of fried chicken.

Coda

No prompt seems to be too tricky for DALL-E 3 to address. This time, imagine the Yule Lads on tour over Christmas in a Japanese/Icelandic hybrid landscape, enjoying a KFC Christmas along with the locals. Here are the results.


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Arrival of the first Yule Lad

Stekkjarstaur

Stekkjarstaur, whose name translates to “Sheep-Cote Clod” in English, is the first Yule Lad to arrive in Icelandic communities. He begins his visits on 12 December.

Sheep-Cote Clod is characterised by his tendency to harass sheep and is often depicted with stiff, peg-like legs, which he uses to scale fences and reach the sheep pens. His primary purpose during his visit is to steal milk from the ewes by suckling on them or simply causing trouble among the livestock.


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Christmas traditions (Advent calendar, Day 11)

What is the origin story of Krampus?

Krampus is a folklore character with roots in Central European and Alpine traditions, particularly in Austria, Bavaria, and other German-speaking regions. Unlike Santa Claus, who rewards good children with gifts, Krampus is a dark and sinister figure who punishes naughty children during the Christmas season. Here’s the origin story and some interesting anecdotes about Krampus and how this character is used to celebrate Christmas around the world:

Celebrating St Nicholas’ Day
  • Pagan origins: Krampus’ origins can be traced back to pre-Christian pagan beliefs in the Alpine regions of Europe. In these areas, it was believed that during the winter solstice, evil spirits roamed the earth, and people performed rituals to drive them away.
  • Christian adaptation: With the spread of Christianity, many pagan traditions were incorporated into Christian holidays. Krampus became associated with St Nicholas, who rewarded good children and punished the bad. The date 6th December, known as St Nicholas Day, became the occasion when Krampus would visit homes.

Interesting anecdotes about Krampus

St Nicholas’ Day procession in Bavaria
  • Krampusnacht: On the night of 5th December, known as Krampusnacht, people in Alpine regions dress up as Krampus and roam the streets, scaring children and adults alike. In some places, parades featuring elaborate Krampus costumes are held.
  • Krampuslauf: “Krampuslauf” refers to Krampus runs or processions that take place in various Austrian and German towns. Participants dress as Krampus and roam the streets, often engaging in mock confrontations with spectators. These events have gained popularity and are now attended by tourists.
  • Krampus cards: In the early 20th century, greeting cards featuring Krampus, known as Krampuskarten, became popular in Austria and Bavaria. These cards often depicted Krampus frightening children and included humorous or rhyming verses.
  • Austrian folklore: In Austrian folklore, Krampus is sometimes accompanied by a counterpart known as “Perchten,” who are female creatures that represent the wild and untamed aspects of nature. The Perchten also participate in processions and festivities during the holiday season.
  • Modern pop culture: Krampus has made appearances in modern pop culture, including movies, television shows, and even a dedicated “Krampusnacht” event at Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights.
  • Krampuslauf in the United States: In recent years, Krampus-themed events and parades have gained popularity in the United States. Cities like Los Angeles and Philadelphia host Krampus-themed runs and festivals.
  • Krampusnacht celebrations: Some people have embraced Krampusnacht as a playful and slightly subversive alternative to traditional Christmas celebrations. It’s a time to dress up as Krampus, indulge in dark humour, and celebrate the darker side of the holiday season.
  • Krampus’ punishments: In the legend, Krampus is often depicted carrying chains and a bundle of birch branches, which he uses to swat and whip naughty children. In some traditions, he might also stuff misbehaving children into his sack and carry them away.
Krampusnacht DC

In a nutshell

Krampus adds a unique and slightly eerie dimension to the Christmas season in certain European cultures. While he may be a fearsome character, he also serves as a reminder to children to behave and a source of entertainment for those who embrace the tradition of Krampusnacht.

Coda

In these hypothetical tableaux, DALL-E 3 images the Yule Lads taking part in a Krampusnacht procession taking place in a street in Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland.


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Christmas traditions (Advent calendar, Day 10)

What is the origin story of carolling?

Carolling, or carol singing, is a cherished Christmas tradition with deep historical roots. It involves groups of people, known as carollers, singing festive songs and hymns, often going door to door or performing in public spaces during the holiday season. Here’s the origin story and some interesting anecdotes about caroling and how it is used to celebrate Christmas around the world:

Medieval carolling
  • Medieval origins: The tradition of carolling can be traced back to medieval Europe. During the Middle Ages, traveling minstrels and musicians would go from village to village, singing songs and spreading news and entertainment. Some of these songs were religious in nature and related to Christmas.
  • Carols as a form of worship: The word “carol” originally referred to a circle dance, but it eventually came to signify a festive song or hymn. Carols were used in both religious and secular contexts, with some being specifically associated with Christmas.
  • Early Christmas carols: Early Christmas carols were primarily religious and focused on the Nativity story. They were sung in churches and homes as part of Christmas worship and festivities.

Interesting anecdotes about carolling

Historical re-enactment of Victorian carol singing
  • St Francis of Assisi: St Francis of Assisi is often credited with popularizing the singing of Christmas carols in church services during the 13th century. He encouraged the use of carols in religious celebrations to make the Nativity story more accessible to ordinary people.
  • Banning of carols: During the Protestant Reformation in the 16th and 17th centuries, many Christmas customs, including carol singing, were banned in some regions. However, the tradition persisted, and carolling experienced a revival in the Victorian era.
  • Carol revival in the Victorian era: In the 19th century, the Victorian era saw a resurgence of interest in Christmas traditions, including carolling. Many famous carols that we still sing today, such as “O Holy Night” and “Silent Night,” were written during this period.
  • “Good King Wenceslas”: The popular Christmas carol “Good King Wenceslas” tells the story of a kind-hearted king who goes out on the Feast of Stephen (26 December) to help a poor man. The carol was based on the historical figure of King Wenceslaus I of Bohemia.
  • Diverse repertoire: Over the centuries, carollers have sung a wide range of Christmas songs, from traditional religious carols like “O Come, All Ye Faithful” to secular classics like “Jingle Bells.”
  • Carolling around the world: Carolling is a global tradition, with variations in different countries. In England, carolers often go door to door and are rewarded with treats or donations. In Latin American countries, “Posadas” involve processions and carol singing to re-enact Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging.
  • Carolling for charity: In many places, carolling is used as a way to raise money for charity during the Christmas season. Carollers may sing in public spaces or go door to door, collecting donations for a worthy cause.
  • Record for carolling: In 2018, a group of carollers in the UK set a Guinness World Record for the largest group of carol singers, with over 15,000 participants.
  • Modern carolling: In the digital age, carolling has adapted to new technologies. Virtual carolling events, where people sing together over video calls, became popular during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Virtual carol singing over Zoom during the Covid-19 pandemic

In a nutshell

Carolling continues to be a beloved Christmas tradition, fostering a sense of community and spreading holiday cheer. Whether performed by professional choirs, church groups, or enthusiastic neighbors, carolling brings people together to celebrate the joyous spirit of Christmas through music and song.

Coda

In these fantasy tableaux, the Yule Lads sing carols in the street outside a house in Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland.


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Christmas traditions (Advent calendar, Day 9)

What is the origin story of gingerbread houses?

The tradition of gingerbread houses has its origins in medieval Europe, particularly in Germany, and has evolved over centuries to become a popular Christmas tradition. Here’s the origin story and some interesting anecdotes about gingerbread houses and how they are used to celebrate Christmas around the world:

Tudor rose, medieval gingerbread
  • Medieval origins: Gingerbread itself has ancient roots, dating back to ancient Egypt and Greece, where ginger was used for its medicinal properties. In medieval Europe, gingerbread was made by monks and used for various purposes, including religious ceremonies and as a treat for special occasions.
  • Gingerbread in Europe: Gingerbread recipes and techniques spread throughout Europe, with each region adding its unique flavors and shapes. In some cultures, gingerbread was often shaped into intricate figures and cookies.
  • Gingerbread artistry: The practice of creating elaborate gingerbread sculptures and houses gained popularity during the 16th century in Germany. Nuremberg, Germany, became known for its highly detailed and decorated gingerbread creations.

Interesting anecdotes about gingerbread houses

Zillow listing for witch’s cottage in Hansel and Gretel (h/t Midjourney)
  • Hansel and Gretel: The famous Brothers Grimm fairy tale “Hansel and Gretel,” published in the early 19th century, featured a witch’s house made of gingerbread, candy, and other sweets. This story helped solidify the association of gingerbread houses with childhood and fairy tales.
  • Gingerbread house traditions: Gingerbread houses are a beloved Christmas tradition in many countries, including Germany, the United States, and the Nordic countries. They are often made as part of holiday festivities and used as decorations.
  • National Gingerbread House Competition: The National Gingerbread House Competition held annually at The Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville, North Carolina, is one of the most prestigious gingerbread house competitions in the world. Contestants create intricate and edible gingerbread masterpieces.
  • Gingerbread house festivals: Many towns and cities host gingerbread house festivals during the holiday season, where local bakers and community members create gingerbread houses for display. These festivals often include competitions, gingerbread house tours, and charity auctions.
  • The largest gingerbread house: In 2013, the world’s largest gingerbread house was constructed in Texas, USA. It measured 60 feet by 42 feet (18.3 metres by 12.8 metres) and was made with thousands of pounds of gingerbread, icing, and candy. It served as a fundraiser for a local hospital.
  • DIY gingerbread kits: Gingerbread house kits, which include pre-baked gingerbread pieces, icing, and candy decorations, have become popular for families to assemble their gingerbread houses at home. They offer a convenient way to participate in the tradition.
  • Gingerbread house displays: Many institutions, such as museums, hotels, and shopping centers, create elaborate gingerbread house displays during the holiday season, attracting visitors from near and far to marvel at the edible art.
  • Gingerbread house decorating parties: Hosting gingerbread house decorating parties has become a popular holiday activity. Friends and family gather to decorate gingerbread houses with colorful icing, candy, and other creative embellishments.
  • Edible architecture: Gingerbread houses have evolved into an art form, with some creations replicating famous buildings and landmarks, such as the White House and iconic European structures.
National Gingerbread House Competition

In a nutshell

Gingerbread houses are a delightful and creative way to celebrate the holiday season, allowing people of all ages to exercise their artistic skills and indulge in sweet, festive treats. The tradition continues to evolve, with bakers and decorators pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved with gingerbread and confectionery.

Coda

In this dreamlike scene, the Yule Lads visit the gingerbread house in the woods owned by the witch in the Hansel and Gretel fairy tale, first collected and published in 1812 by the Brothers Grimm.


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Christmas traditions (Advent calendar, Day 8)

What is the origin story of Yule logs?

Winter Solstice centrepiece (Mark Green, Atheopaganism)

The Yule log, a significant symbol of the Christmas season, has ancient pagan roots and has evolved over time to become a beloved Christmas tradition. Here’s the origin story and some interesting anecdotes about Yule logs and how they are used to celebrate Christmas around the world:

  • Ancient pagan origins: The tradition of the Yule log predates Christianity and is believed to have originated with ancient Germanic and Celtic pagan celebrations of the winter solstice, known as Yule. During these festivals, a large, specially selected log, often from a fruit-bearing tree, was burned as a symbol of the sun’s return and the promise of longer days ahead.
  • Christian adoption: As Christianity spread across Europe, many pagan customs and traditions were incorporated into Christian celebrations to ease the transition to the new religion. The Yule log became associated with Christmas, symbolizing the light of Christ and the hope of salvation.

Interesting anecdotes about Yule logs

Bûche de Noël , French Christmas Yule Log Cake (Crafty Baking)
  • Yule log cake: In many cultures, especially in France and Belgium, the Yule log tradition has evolved into the creation of a Yule log cake, known as “Bûche de Noël” in French. This cake is shaped to resemble a log and is often made of sponge cake filled with flavored buttercream, rolled into a log shape, and decorated to look like a wooden log.
  • Decorating the log: In some regions, especially in France, families decorate the Yule log with candles, greenery, and small figurines to create a festive centrepiece for their Christmas celebrations.
  • Ashes for protection: In some traditions, ashes from the burned Yule log were believed to have protective qualities. People would sprinkle the ashes on their fields, homes, or even themselves to guard against evil spirits.
  • Three days of burning: In some regions, it was customary to keep the Yule log burning for the entire Christmas season, which traditionally spanned 12 days. The log would be lit on Christmas Eve and left to burn until 6 January, known as Epiphany or Twelfth Night.
  • Yule log ceremonies: Some families and communities have Yule log ceremonies, where they gather together to light the log, sing carols, and exchange gifts. This tradition fosters a sense of togetherness and celebration during the holiday season.
  • Variations around the world: Different cultures have their unique variations of the Yule log tradition. For example, in Catalonia, Spain, they have the “Caga Tió,” a Christmas log with a smiling face and a red hat. Children “beat” the log with sticks to make it “defecate” small gifts and candies.
  • Environmental awareness: In modern times, there has been a growing emphasis on environmentally friendly celebrations. Some people opt for a Yule log made of recycled or sustainable materials, or they choose alternatives like electric Yule log videos that mimic the crackling fire without the need for a physical log.
  • Yule log television broadcasts: In some countries, especially in North America, there is a tradition of broadcasting a Yule log video on television during the Christmas season. This tradition started in the 1960s and has become a popular way for people to enjoy the ambiance of a crackling fire even if they don’t have a fireplace.
Yule log TV channel

In a nutshell

The Yule log tradition bridges the gap between ancient pagan celebrations and modern Christian Christmas traditions. It continues to be a symbol of light, hope, and togetherness during the holiday season, celebrated in various forms by people around the world.

Coda

In this DALL-E 3 simulation, the Yule Lads are admiring a Yule log centrepiece on a dining-room table in an Icelandic house, with a roaring log fire in the background.