Christmas in Norway: How the Norwegians Celebrate Jul

Christmas is a special time in Norway, known as Jul. The Norwegians have a long and rich tradition of celebrating Christmas, with many unique and charming customs. Here is a look at how the Norwegians celebrate Jul.

Christmas in Norway: How the Norwegians Celebrate Jul

by David Nikel

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1169 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	34 pages

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Preparing for Christmas

The Norwegians start preparing for Christmas early, with many families beginning their preparations in November. One of the first things they do is to decorate their homes with Christmas trees, lights, and ornaments. The Christmas tree is typically a spruce or pine tree, and it is decorated with a variety of ornaments, including balls, baubles, and tinsel. The lights on the tree are usually white or colored, and they are often strung around the tree in a spiral pattern.

Another important part of preparing for Christmas in Norway is baking. The Norwegians love to bake Christmas cookies, and there are many different types of cookies that are traditionally made during this time of year. Some of the most popular cookies include pepperkaker (gingerbread cookies),krumkaker (rolled cookies filled with whipped cream),and sandkaker (shortbread cookies). The Norwegians also bake a special Christmas bread called julekake, which is a sweet bread that is often filled with raisins and spices.

Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve is the most important day of Christmas in Norway. On this day, families gather together to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The day begins with a traditional Christmas breakfast, which typically includes porridge, smalahove (sheep's head),and lutefisk (dried cod). After breakfast, many families attend church services. In the afternoon, children often go caroling, and they may also visit the local nursing home or hospital to sing Christmas songs to the residents.

In the evening, families gather together for a traditional Christmas dinner. The main course is usually roast pork or lamb, and it is served with boiled potatoes, gravy, and red cabbage. After dinner, the Norwegians often sing Christmas carols and exchange gifts. Santa Claus, known as Julenissen in Norway, typically arrives on Christmas Eve and delivers gifts to children.

Christmas Day

Christmas Day is a day of rest and relaxation for the Norwegians. Many families spend the day at home, enjoying each other's company and playing games. Some families may also go for a walk in the snow or visit friends and relatives. In the evening, many Norwegians attend a special Christmas service at church.

Boxing Day

Boxing Day is the day after Christmas, and it is a public holiday in Norway. Many businesses and shops are closed on this day, and families often spend the day together. Some families may go for a walk in the snow, visit friends and relatives, or simply relax at home. In the evening, many Norwegians attend a special Boxing Day service at church.

The Twelve Days of Christmas

The Twelve Days of Christmas are the twelve days between Christmas Day and Epiphany (January 6). During this time, the Norwegians continue to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Many families decorate their homes with Christmas decorations, and they may also sing Christmas carols and exchange gifts. The Twelve Days of Christmas end on Epiphany, which is a day of feasting and celebration.

Christmas is a special time of year in Norway. The Norwegians have a long and rich tradition of celebrating Christmas, with many unique and charming customs. From decorating their homes to baking Christmas cookies to singing Christmas carols, the Norwegians love to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.

Christmas in Norway: How the Norwegians Celebrate Jul

by David Nikel

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1169 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	34 pages

FREE