superstitions
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How Iceland Celebrated Halloween Before There Even Was Halloween
Halloween nears, and from the hearts of all the old Norse, you’re welcome. The holiday has its roots in old pagan customs originating in the Nordic countries. In Sweden, it was Dísablót (‘Festival Of The Valkyries’), and in Iceland, Veturnætur (‘Winternights’), which…
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Icelandic Superstitions: Moving Day
So you’ve got all your stuff boxed up, you’ve got the van hired, and you’re ready to move into your new home. But are you sure you brought everything you’ll need? In Iceland, there are superstitions surrounding having a particular set of…
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Upside-Down Rakes And White Sheep: A Sampling Of Icelandic Weather Superstitions
It’s long been established that if there’s one sure-fire way to start a conversation in Iceland, all you need do is say “how about this weather?” The weather is seriously important in this country, deeply embedded in a culture dependent on fishing…
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How To Kill A Sailor: Light A Cigarette With A Candle
You’re out clubbing. You step outside to the smoking area to get a much-needed dose of nicotine, but sadly, you’ve misplaced your lighter. Not to worry: the staff have helpfully lit a number of large candles all over the area, so all…
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Icelandic Superstitions: “Sjö Níu Þrettán”
You are likely very familiar with the old superstition about “knocking on wood” or “touching wood”—rapping your knuckles lightly on a table or any piece of wood in order to avoid a bad outcome for a specific hope (e.g. “We should get…
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Icelandic Superstitions: The Northern Lights
Every culture everywhere has superstitions, and Iceland is no exception. There are numerous superstitions in this country; some connected to the hidden people, others far more recent. As could probably be expected, there are also superstitions regarding the northern lights. The earliest…