Christmas Day in Faroe Islands ― Date, History, and Details

Christmas Day in Faroe Islands

Christmas Day in Faroe Islands may be something you want to learn more about, and we want to help with that.

Let's dive deeper into learning more about the history of Christmas Day in Faroe Islands and why people celebrate or observe it.

History of Christmas Day in Faroe Islands and How to Celebrate/ Observe It

Christmas Day in the Faroe Islands is celebrated on December 25th, just like in many other countries around the world. The main difference is that instead of Santa Claus coming down the chimney, the Faroese believe that the Yule Lads come down from the mountains to visit children.

The Yule Lads are mischievous characters who each have their own unique personality. For example, there’s one who likes to steal sausages, another who likes to play practical jokes, and another who likes to give children presents.

On Christmas Eve, children leave their shoes out so that the Yule Lads can fill them with either presents or rotten potatoes, depending on whether the child has been good or bad.

Christmas dinner in the Faroe Islands usually consists of boiled mutton and potatoes, with some kind of pudding for dessert. After dinner, people often exchange gifts and sing Christmas songs.

One of the most popular Christmas traditions in the Faroe Islands is the custom of giving someone a “gjógv” (pronounced “yogv”). This is a small, hand-knitted sweater that is typically given to a friend or loved one.

The Faroe Islands are a beautiful place to spend Christmas, with snow-capped mountains and festive lights everywhere you look. If you’re ever in the area during the holidays, be sure to experience Christmas Faroese-style!