“Scandinavia is the source for most Yule log traditions that survive today. In Finland, where one-third of the population lives above the Arctic Circle, the dark, cold winters naturally inspired traditions involving warmth and light. Originally the Yule log was an entire tree, carefully selected and brought into the house with grand ritual. Scandinavians would place the tree’s trunk into the fireplace, then slowly feed it though, making it endure until the last day. Today, the Christmas tree is set up on Christmas Eve. Apples and other fruits, candies, paper flags, cotton and tinsel are used as decorations, and candles are used for lighting it.
A sheaf of grain is often tied to a pole, together with nuts and seeds and placed in the garden for the birds. Many of the peasants will not eat their Christmas dinner until the birds have had their dinner.The meal was begun as soon as the first star appeared in the sky. The main dish of the dinner is boiled codfish served snowy white and fluffy, with allspice, boiled potatoes, and cream sauce. Also on the menu is roast suckling pig or a roasted fresh ham, mashed potatoes, and vegetables.
Christmas Day services in the churches begin at six in the morning. It is a day for family visits and reunions. During all these days the people keep wishing each other a "Merry Yule."
Please note: Throughout this week, if anyone finds error in what I post about foreign tradition, please inform me so that I may correct it. I am just finding this information via the internet and hope not to offend anyone.
How interesting, and I love the image you have selected, thanks for sharing this.
ReplyDeleteHugs Lynn xxxx