Join Anne Dorthe and the host as they celebrate the 10th annual Norwegian Christmas Spectacular on the Zero To Travel Podcast. They reflect on their favorite holiday moments, discuss Norwegian Christmas traditions like sleigh rides and the Norwegian Santa Claus, compare Norwegian Yulanesa and Santa Claus' diets, share personal anecdotes about the best gifts they've received, rate a delicious drink, and emphasize the joy of decorating the Christmas tree with family while listening to Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers.
Community tree lighting creates a sense of togetherness and sets the festive mood.
Feeding Santa in the barn with the kids creates a magical and cozy atmosphere.
The Engadol Christmas party fosters a sense of community and celebration.
Homemade Christmas food symbolizes love, dedication, and appreciation for traditions.
Deep dives
Community Christmas tree lighting
One of my favorite traditions is the community Christmas tree lighting where the whole neighborhood comes together to light the tree and celebrate the start of the holiday season. It creates a sense of community and sets the festive mood for the upcoming holidays.
Putting out food for Santa in the barn
A beloved tradition is going into the barn with my kids and my dad to put out food for Santa, known as 'Nissen' in Norwegian. It's a magical experience where the kids are a little scared but also excited, and it creates a cozy atmosphere in the barn.
Engadol Christmas party
The Engadol Christmas party is a cherished tradition where the community gathers in an old wooden common house to share food and celebrate. It's filled with music, laughter, and a sense of togetherness that is unique to this festive occasion.
Homemade Christmas food and cookies
One of the highlights is the homemade Christmas food and cookies that my parents make. The amount of work, dedication, and love they put into preparing these treats is truly special. It's not just about the delicious food, but also the appreciation for the traditions and the care behind it.
Christmas at home
Christmas at home is a treasured tradition where we embrace the casual and laid-back atmosphere. We spend the day in our pajamas, opening presents, enjoying each other's company, and savoring the simple joys of the holiday season. It's a wonderful opportunity to relax and truly appreciate the spirit of Christmas with loved ones.
Norwegian Christmas Food Traditions
Norway has a variety of Christmas food traditions based on regional dishes. In some areas, it is common to have dishes like Girotte, which is a porridge made of rice served on the day before Christmas or for Christmas lunch. Other common dishes include pork belly, meat cakes, ham, fish, and a variety of homemade cookies. Some regions have lamb or cod dishes, and lutefisk, a fish dish with a jelly-like consistency. The Christmas food traditions in Norway involve hours of cooking and lots of love put into the meals.
The Tradition of Pre-Christmas Coziness (Førjulskos)
One of the favorite holiday traditions in Norway is the concept of 'Førjulskos,' which means pre-Christmas coziness. It encompasses everything enjoyable and pleasant before Christmas, such as baking, eating, getting together with friends and family, and having Christmas workshops. It is a time to create memories and appreciate the quality time spent with loved ones. The tradition of 'Førjulskos' allows Norwegians to focus on the joy and togetherness of the holiday season, rather than just the materialistic aspects.
It’s our 10th annual Norwegian Christmas Spectacular! Get ready for some good humor, holiday cheer, and a funny surprise as Anne Dorthe and I take a look back on a decade of our favorite holiday moments and share our top 10 Norwegian Christmas traditions.
What are some of your holiday traditions? I'd love to hear what they are and hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message.
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Tune In To Learn:
One of my most unforgettable Norwegian Christmas moments
Why Santa won’t be bringing us gifts here in Norway and my big Santa fail
The Santa Clause vs Julenisse throwdown
Norwegian Christmas food and drink traditions (Christmas soda?!)
