When learning Icelandic, one of the most fascinating aspects is discovering the rich cultural traditions that come with the language. Icelanders have a unique way of celebrating Christmas, which is called **Jól**. Unlike in many other countries, where Christmas revolves around a single day, **Jól** in Iceland spans several weeks and includes a host of unique traditions and characters, most notably the **Jólasveinar** or Christmas Elves.

Understanding Jól

The Icelandic word for Christmas is **Jól**. This term is used to describe the entire festive season, which is filled with various customs, food, and folklore.

Jól – Christmas, the festive season in Iceland.

Við höldum **Jól** hátíðleg um allan desember.

**Jól** is a time of joy and togetherness. The celebrations start early in December and last until the 6th of January, known as **Þrettándinn** or the Thirteenth Day of Christmas.

Þrettándinn – The Thirteenth Day of Christmas, marking the end of the Christmas season.

Á **Þrettándinn** förum við með kyndla og syngjum.

During **Jól**, families gather to enjoy traditional Icelandic foods and participate in various cultural activities. One of the most beloved traditions is the arrival of the **Jólasveinar**.

Who Are the Jólasveinar?

The **Jólasveinar**, or Christmas Elves, are a group of thirteen mischievous characters who visit children during the **Jól** season. Unlike Santa Claus, who visits on Christmas Eve, the **Jólasveinar** start their visits thirteen days before Christmas.

Jólasveinar – Christmas Elves, folklore characters who visit children before Christmas.

**Jólasveinar** koma hver nótt til að setja gjafir í skó barna.

Each night, one of the **Jólasveinar** comes down from the mountains to leave small gifts in the shoes of well-behaved children or potatoes for those who have been naughty. The names of these elves are quite descriptive, reflecting their unique personalities and habits.

The Thirteen Jólasveinar

1. **Stekkjastaur** (Sheep-Cote Clod) – Known for harassing sheep.
Stekkjastaur – Sheep-Cote Clod, the first of the Christmas Elves.

**Stekkjastaur** á það til að elta kindur.

2. **Giljagaur** (Gully Gawk) – Likes to hide in gullies and steal milk.
Giljagaur – Gully Gawk, the second Christmas Elf.

**Giljagaur** kemur oft til að ná í mjólk.

3. **Stúfur** (Stubby) – Short and steals pans to eat the crust left on them.
Stúfur – Stubby, the third Christmas Elf.

**Stúfur** tekur pönnur til að borða afganga.

4. **Þv