Icelandic youngsters rejoice that there is not just one Santa bringing them gifts at Christmas time, but a total of 13 Jolasveinar, or "Yule Tide Lads" in all! Their individual names are Woodfoot, Canalguy, Shorty, Spoonlicker, Poteater, Askalicker, Doorslammer, Cheese-curds Container, Sausagehooker, Windowpeaking, Smellynose, Meathooker, and Candlesnatcher. Good boys and girls can expect a gift from each of these mountain-dwelling characters-one per day, beginning on December 12th each year. The "Yule Tide Lads" then stay in the lowlands to celebrate Christmas, according to legend, and return to their mountain home on January 6th. Called "the thirteenth" because it is the 13th day after Christmas, that's also the official end of the holidays--when Icelandic people take down the Christmas tree and decorations. Icelandic folks believe that the "Yule Tide "Lads" are descended from two mythological figures called Gryla the Ogre and Leppaludi. While these characters were frightening and even devilish, the Lads are merely mischievous--sup- posedly doing what their names suggest in Icelandic houses when they visit. So homeowners may find their candles snatched, spoons licked, and so on. Meanwhile, Icelandic people celebrate Christmas with a glorious Festival of Lights. Getting and wearing new clothes is a big part of the holiday tradition as well--indeed, legend has it that the malicious Christmas Cat could eat anyone not dressed in their best on Christmas! On Christmas Day, Icelandic families make their visits to loved ones, and then return back home to discover the "Yule Tide Lads" final gift!
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