Have You Heard Of Jólabókaflóð? // Bookmas Day 9
There are countless Christmas traditions, but have you ever heard of Jólabókaflóð? It’s more than just a tradition—it’s a celebration of literature, connection, and the pure joy of reading. Could there be a more perfect way to spend Christmas Eve?
An Icelandic tradition, Jólabókaflóð means ‘Christmas Book Flood’. It’s pronounced: yo-la-boke-uh-flowed. With that initial ‘J’ not being as harsh as someone like me from the UK would do. This amazing custom revolves around the simple joy of giving and receiving books.
It began during World War II, when strict currency restrictions changed the way people gave gifts. At the time in Iceland, paper imports weren’t rationed, making books an affordable and meaningful gift. By 1944—the year Iceland declared independence from Denmark—the custom was officially solidified with the introduction of Bókatíðindi (the Book Bulletin). This free catalog, distributed to Icelandic homes, listed new book releases, inspiring a holiday season of book giving.
On Christmas Eve, Icelanders exchange new books with their loved ones, pairing them with cozy indulgences like mugs of hot cocoa, Icelandic chocolates, or even a festive beer. Jólabókaflóð remains a testament to Iceland’s love for books and storytelling, blending history, culture, and community into a magical Christmas Eve tradition.become lifelong memories.
I love this as a tradition and cannot wait to see all the social media posts this Christmas Eve.
And that is what Jólabókaflóð is. Perfect to know about for today’s Bookmas post. What are your thoughts of the tradition? Do you have any Christmas book traditions of your own?
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As always, thanks for reading…
I have been doing this with my parents for the last 5 Christmas Eves. It is such a wonderful relaxing and cosy way to spend the evening.
I’m thinking to implement it in my house! But picking just one book to gift may be where I fail! 😂