In Iceland since 1944 it has been traditional to give a book on Christmas Eve. Unlikely other parts of Europe, during the Second World War paper was not rationed, and the tradition of Jólabókaflód was born. Whilst reading and storytelling has been a intrinsic part of Icelandic culture for centuries Jólabókaflód, (loosely translated as ‘Christmas book flood’) has been instrumental in continuing to birth a wonderful nation of book lovers.
I often think of a tradition as something that began way back in the annals of time. Now, whilst 1944 may be just that to many, it is still our recent past, and that got me thinking. Broadly speaking you need three things for something to become a tradition – a large group of people participating, the activity being passed from one generation to the next, and respect and acknowledgement of the past.
This year, my family will be receiving a book on Christmas Eve – who knows, one day this may become a family tradition!
Here’s wishing you all a Happy & Healthy Christmas.
Nicole x