Lillejulaften, or Little Christmas Eve, is a day filled with cherished traditions for many Norwegians, marking the final preparations leading up to Christmas Day. It wraps the season of joyful anticipation as families across the country unite to finalize their holiday décor and culinary delights.
This year, as every year, many households partake in various customary activities. Some families find solace and joy in decorating their Christmas trees on this day, others savor the comforting taste of rice porridge with almond hidden within—a sweet tradition believed to bring luck. And as the evening draws near, the TV sets across Norway flicker to life at 9 PM for the much-loved sketch 'Grevinnen og hovmesteren' ('Dinner for One'), bringing laughter and nostalgia as Norwegians gather round to watch.
Broadcasting on NRK, this sketch features the ever-drunken butler serving his increasingly intoxicated patron, and it has become quintessential to Norwegian Christmas festivities since it first aired over 40 years ago. It has woven itself so intricately within the nation's holiday fabric over the years, akin to the indelible presence of the Christmas tree itself. This year, viewers have the chance to relive every comedic moment as they have done every year, creating smiles and cheers across the nation.
Helene and Amin Aaskar, preparing for their family gathering, reflect on their traditions, planning to make Waldorf salad and spice their turkey. Their focus is on creating tranquility on Christmas Eve, ensuring they have everything ready for the following day's celebration. 'We make all the preparations we can the day before so we can have as relaxing Christmas Eve as possible,' says Helene. Their family, like many others, will gather around the television to enjoy the traditional sketch and share laughter and warmth.
Others, like Terje Gullåsen, who usually owns the neighborhood restaurant 'Hos Naboen,' are adapting their holiday practices due to unforeseen family circumstances. 'This year's Christmas will be different,’ Terje mentions. He is dedicated to preparing meals for those less fortunate as he volunteers to cook for 180 single individuals during this festive time. 'For many years, I've associated the joy of Christmas with relaxing and enjoying my family's company, but I'm excited about this new chapter.'
Many families are also engaging with time-honored recipes passed down generations. The Pongo family, who have nearly 100 years of culinary tradition, are preparing their signature wine soup—a special dish among their repertoire. Szilvia Pongo explains she cooks the soup, ensuring children can enjoy it too since the alcohol evaporates during preparation. 'We are making sure to follow the old recipes,' she says, articulately passing down the legacy to her children.
Even those who are not making large family festivities have their own traditions. On the same day, the police reported various incidents, including recovering stolen vehicles and intoxicated individuals. 'It's our responsibility to keep the public safe as they celebrate the holiday,' says Trond Hangaas, operations leader for Trøndelag Police District.
This year has seen unusual activities leading up to Lillejulaften, reflecting both the community spirit and its occasional challenges. Local markets buzz, retail stores prepare for the immense foot traffic expected on this dramatic shopping day. Store managers anticipate 'chaos' as last-minute shoppers flood the aisles attempting to secure gifts.
The harmonious spirit of the evening culminates with families nestling around the television, without fail, as 'Grevinnen og hovmesteren' brings forth laughter and recollections of Christmases past. 'It simply wouldn’t be Lillejulaften without it,' many would agree.
At the end of this special day, many families finalize their preparations with great joy, wrapping up presents, completing meal prep, and dressing the tables for the big night. They revel together, cherishing the anticipation of Christmas Day, which for many signifies the epitome of winter festivities.
