Question 1

What are the Icelandic Yule Lads?

Accepted Answer

The Yule Lads (Jólasveinar) are 13 mischievous troll-like figures from Icelandic folklore who visit children during the 13 nights before Christmas, starting December 12th. Each has a unique personality and prank. They are the sons of the fearsome ogress Grýla.

Question 2

When do the Yule Lads arrive in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

The Yule Lads arrive one by one over 13 nights: Stekkjastaur (Dec 12), Giljagaur (Dec 13), Stúfur (Dec 14), Þvörusleikir (Dec 15), Pottasleikir (Dec 16), Askasleikir (Dec 17), Hurðaskellir (Dec 18), Skyrgámur (Dec 19), Bjúgnakrækir (Dec 20), Gluggagægir (Dec 21), Gáttaþefur (Dec 22), Ketkrókur (Dec 23), and Kertasníkir (Dec 24).

Question 3

What is the Icelandic Christmas shoe tradition?

Accepted Answer

Icelandic children place their shoes on windowsills during the 13 nights before Christmas. Each night, a different Yule Lad visits and leaves small gifts for good children, or a potato for those who have misbehaved.

Question 4

Who is Grýla in Icelandic folklore?

Accepted Answer

Grýla is the fearsome ogress mother of the 13 Yule Lads in Icelandic folklore. She lives in the mountains with her husband Leppalúði and is known for collecting naughty children in her sack during Christmas time. She has appeared in Icelandic legends since the 13th century.

Question 5

What is the Yule Cat (Jólakötturinn)?

Accepted Answer

The Yule Cat (Jólakötturinn) is a giant cat from Icelandic folklore that roams during Christmas time. According to legend, it eats people who haven't received new clothes before Christmas Eve. This tradition encouraged people to finish their wool work before winter and ensured farmworkers received new clothing.

Question 6

What are the names of the 13 Yule Lads?

Accepted Answer

The 13 Yule Lads are: 1) Stekkjastaur (Sheep-Cote Clod), 2) Giljagaur (Gully Gawk), 3) Stúfur (Stubby), 4) Þvörusleikir (Spoon Licker), 5) Pottasleikir (Pot Licker), 6) Askasleikir (Bowl Licker), 7) Hurðaskellir (Door Slammer), 8) Skyrgámur (Skyr Gobbler), 9) Bjúgnakrækir (Sausage Swiper), 10) Gluggagægir (Window Peeper), 11) Gáttaþefur (Doorway Sniffer), 12) Ketkrókur (Meat Hook), 13) Kertasníkir (Candle Stealer).