13 Trolls

The Yule Lads or Yule men are figures from Icelandic folklore who in modern times have become the Icelandic version of Santa Claus. Their number has varied throughout the ages, but a current count lists 13 of them. Icelandic children place shoes on their window sills — the counterpart of hanging stockings — during the … Continue reading 13 Trolls

Customs of Yule and Winter Solstice

Customs of Yule and Winter Solstice past and present Many of the ancient traditions surrounding Yuletide are concerned with coping with the darkness and the evils it was thought to harbor, and helping the return of light and warmth. Gift Giving Children were escorted from house to house with gifts of clove spiked apples and … Continue reading Customs of Yule and Winter Solstice