People and Culture
The Arctic is not only a place of ice and extreme environments. It is home to rich cultures, resilient communities, and deep‑rooted traditions that have developed over thousands of years in close connection with the land, the climate, and the natural world.
Across the Arctic, Indigenous peoples have built ways of life uniquely adapted to seasonal cycles, long winters, and challenging landscapes. Their knowledge systems, languages, and cultural practices reflect a deep understanding of the environment and continue to play a vital role in Arctic societies today. Alongside these living cultures, the Arctic is also home to a rich tradition of stories, myths, and folklore that express how people have interpreted nature, darkness, light, and survival in the North.
In this section, you can find educational material exploring the people and cultures of the Arctic through profiles of Indigenous communities and examples of traditional beliefs and folklore. From Arctic Indigenous peoples to Nordic winter traditions, these topics highlight the cultural diversity, creativity, and resilience that define human life in the Arctic.
Education material in slideshow format with information text about the people in the arctic and their culture.
Skyrgámur (Skyr-Gobbler) is the eight Yule Lad who comes to town on the night before the 19th of December and departs for home on the 1st of January.
Hurðaskellir (Door-Slammer) is the seventh Yule Lad who comes to town on the night before the 18th of December and departs for home on the 31st of December.
Askasleikir (Bowl-Licker) is the sixth Yule Lad who comes to town on the night before the 17th of December and departs for home on the 30th of December.
Pottaskefill (Pot-Scraper) is the fifth Yule Lad who comes to town on the night before the 16th of December and departs for home on the 29th of December.
Þvörusleikir (Spoon-Licker) is the fourth Yule Lad who comes to town on the night before the 15th of December and departs for home on the 28th of December.
Stúfur (Stubby) is the third Yule Lad who comes to town on the night before the 14th December and departs for home on the 27th of December.
Giljagaur (Gully Gawk) is the second Yule Lad who comes to town on the night before the 13th of December and departs for home on the 26th of December.
Stekkjastaur (Sheep-Cote-Clod) is the first Yule Lad who comes to town on the night before the 12th of December and also the first to depart for home on the 25th of December.
Unlike most other countries that only have one Santa Claus, Iceland has thirteen. They are called Jólasveinar (Yule Lads) and take turns visiting our children the 13 nights leading up to Christmas Eve.
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