There are many traditions in Iceland that I find unusual but fascinating. Some traditions date back to the age of the Vikings, whereas others exist to celebrate recent events. This month, January, has some interesting traditions such as Þorrablót, a midwinter festival, and Sólarkaffi, a celebration of the sun when it comes back in Ísafjörður after a dark winter.
Þorrablót is a midwinter festival in Iceland. At this festival, people recite poems about the Norse god Thor. Typical Viking food is served, such as fermented shark and boiled sheep’s head.
Þorrablót traditionally existed to offer a sacrifice to the Norse gods. The festival was abolished when Iceland was converted to Christianity, but it came back in the 19th century during the Icelandic independence movement.
Not that I know of! But it's a lively festival that people look forward to during some of the darkest months of the year.
