This holiday season, we’re excited to embrace a new family tradition that invites warmth and tranquility into our celebrations. It’s called Jólabókaflóð, a name that may be a mouthful but signifies a delightful love for reading.
What is Jólabókaflóð?
Originating in Iceland, a country celebrated for its high literacy rate—93% of Icelanders read at least one book annually, compared to just 73% of Americans—Jólabókaflóð is a charming Christmas Eve ritual. Each year, as Americans begin their holiday festivities with Halloween decorations, Icelanders kick off their season in mid-November by distributing the Bokatidindi. This catalog lists every new book published in Iceland that year, marking the official start of the holiday season. So, what does Jólabókaflóð mean? It translates to “The Christmas Book Flood.”
The Tradition
So, what is this festive tradition all about? Essentially, Jólabókaflóð involves giving books to everyone on Christmas Eve. After exchanging gifts, you snuggle up with cozy blankets, sip on hot chocolate or a festive non-alcoholic ale called jolabland, and immerse yourself in the joy of reading. No chaotic toy unwrapping, no bickering over gifts—just a peaceful night filled with books.
This year, we’re planning to choose age-appropriate books for each of our kids, ensuring that everyone has a selection to enjoy. Each family member will pick a book for each child, creating a delightful surprise for everyone. We envision our youngest enjoying simple picture books while our middle child dives into adventurous reads like the Magic Treehouse series. Our oldest might explore the realms of mythology and classics like Harry Potter. For my partner, I’ll seek out intriguing nonfiction, while I hope to indulge in some long-awaited fiction. We’ll keep it simple under the Jólabókaflóð tree—just books, no excess clutter.
A Serene Night
I dream of a serene night filled with warm drinks, blankets, and silence. This beloved tradition began in 1944 when Iceland gained independence from Denmark, and books became a cherished gift during the holidays. If you’re inspired to start your own Jólabókaflóð, here are some tips to consider:
- Carefully select books that resonate with your children’s interests, prioritizing their enjoyment over grade levels.
- For younger kids, sticker books are fair game—make it enjoyable for them and yourself.
- Create cozy reading nests for your little ones with blankets and pillows to make the experience special.
- While it’s all about books, consider adding warm socks or other cozy items to enhance the experience.
- Embrace the pajama party vibe—no need to go anywhere.
- Be mindful of your kids’ attention spans; send them off to bed when they’re ready.
- Once the kids are asleep, take some time to unwind with your own book and relaxing drinks.
Conclusion
Ultimately, Jólabókaflóð is about creating a peaceful Christmas Eve, filled with the magic of books. Whether it’s just you and your partner or a cozy evening alone, indulge in the joy of reading this holiday season.
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In summary, Jólabókaflóð is a beautiful tradition that prioritizes reading and connection over consumerism, making for a fulfilling and serene holiday experience.