The giant straw Christmas Goat erected in front of the IKEA in Garðabær has been burned down by as yet unknown assailants.
The straw goat – better known as the Gävle Goat – originates in Sweden, and is usually made to stand for two days at the start of Advent. The idea, conceived by Stig Gavlén in 1966, initiated a tradition of raising a large straw goat, although it is usually burned down by vandals every other year.
The tradition of having the Christmas Goat, and also burning it down, have both made their way to Iceland. The goat was burned down in 2010 and, while escaping arson last year, was heavily damaged by high winds.
Vísir now reports that vandals have managed to burn the goat again this year.
While there is likely security footage of the goat burning, it is not reported if police are investigating or if any suspects are being sought.
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