13 December: Today in Folklore
The Legend of Gryla and the Yule Lads (Iceland)
The Legend of Gryla and the Yule Lads is a captivating piece of Icelandic folklore, particularly prominent during the Christmas season. Gryla, a fearsome ogress, is said to live in the mountains and descends to towns in search of naughty children to cook in her cauldron. Accompanying her are the Yule Lads, thirteen mischievous but less malevolent figures, who visit children across Iceland in the 13 days leading up to Christmas. Each Lad has a distinct personality, ranging from harmless pranksters to more bothersome characters. Children place their shoes by the window, and, based on their behavior, receive either gifts from the Yule Lads or rotten potatoes from Gryla. This legend not only adds a unique twist to the holiday season but also reflects Iceland’s rich cultural heritage and storytelling tradition.
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Suggestions of the Day:
Challenge your friends with Christmas Black Stories
Are you into riddles, puzzles and murder cases? Forget about the same old brain teasers, we got you some fresh and spookily festive Black Stories to play with friends, or challenge your brain.
Play With Friends
Check out the 5 Christmas Black Stories. Some spooky incidents that need explanation. One has the role of the narrator, and the others can ask only yes or no questions until they find the solution.
Play Solo
Alternatively, if you’re more into Sherlock Cases. You can try to solve one of the most strange murder mysteries. Spot the clues, interrogate the suspects, and play at your own pace till you come up with your verdict. Every week we create free murder mysteries for the ones who want to keep their mind sharp.
Watch: A Christmas Horror Story
An anthology film featuring interwoven stories that bring out the darker side of Christmas.
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