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Welcome to Sweden—”The 2nd Country of Christmas”!
Let’s open our eyes to the world and expand our global tapestry!
I have Swedish ancestry, but I have never had the privilege of visiting Sweden. One day!
As I have researched and tried to understand my family’s origins and roots, I discovered this cultural tidbit about Christmas in Sweden.
“Since 1966, a 13-meter-tall Yule Goat has been built in the center of Gävle’s Castle Square for the Advent, but this Swedish Christmas tradition has unwittingly led to another “tradition” of sorts – people trying to burn it down. Since 1966 the Goat has been successfully burned down 29 times – the most recent destruction was in 2016.“
Momondo
The famous goat is erected on December 1 every year.
Watch this fascinating video about the history of the Gävle Goat and its fight to stay alive!
Interesting cultural tidbit, huh?
Now that my eyes are open to the world, I can now recognize this symbol on IKEA Christmas decor!
Another Swedish tradition involves festive rice pudding. A peeled almond is hidden in the dessert, and the person who finds it will, supposedly, be married within a year.
The Style Bouquet
Very interesting! I wonder if only singles can eat the rice pudding and play the game! If you were married and found the almond in your dessert, you would be in big trouble!
MERRY CHRISTMAS, SWEDEN!
—THE CULTURAL STORY-WEAVER
MY GIFT TO YOU—GET YOUR FREE EBOOK—“THE 5-DAY JOURNEY TO CULTURAL AWARENESS”!
LET’S WEAVE CULTURES!
What about you? What are some interesting Christmas traditions in your family or culture, or in other countries you have visited?
We invite you to tell us your own cultural stories and global adventures . . . as you engage with the world, breaking down barriers, building bridges, and “weaving cultures”! Write about them in the comment box below.
