The Christmas Forest opened formally Friday in Reykjavík City Hall's Tjarnarsalur. Preschool children attended the opening. Grýla and Leppalúði arrived to tell stories about the Yule Lads.
Children from Sæborg, Álftaborg and Miðborg preschools attended. Grýla and Leppalúði's arrival delighted the kids. Mayor Einar Þorsteinsson greeted the children, played guitar and sang Christmas songs. Everyone then walked around the Christmas tree in the beautifully decorated hall. Hot cocoa and cookies followed. Grýla and Leppalúði told stories about the Yule Lads. Stekkjastaur, the first Yule Lad, arrives soon.
This marks the 13th year Tjarnarsalur transforms into a Christmas forest. Experience designer Kateřina Blahutová handled design and development this time. The main Christmas tree features the beautiful Love Sphere ornament.
All are welcome to visit the Christmas Forest at Reykjavík City Hall weekdays 8am-6pm, Saturdays 10am-6pm, and Sundays 12pm-6pm.
Yule spirits hide in city center
The Reykjavík City Yule Spirit Game has begun. As usual, 13 Yule spirits have settled in various locations around the city. The scavenger hunt is digital. Access it easily at jolavaettir.borginokkar.is.
Leppalúði, Leiðindaskjóða, the Yule Cat and other strange beings have found spots. Participate by finding creatures and answering simple questions. A drawing on December 19 will award three lucky participants with all correct answers.
The Yule Spirit Game aims to celebrate Icelandic folklore and encourage residents and visitors to enjoy the city center during the advent season. Artist Gunnar Karlsson drew the spirits, which have brightened up the city center during advent since 2011.
Good luck and have fun!