Icelandic Christmas traditions are rich and unique, centered around the celebration of Yule. The festivities begin on December 12th, when the Yule Lads, 13 mischievous figures, start visiting children, leaving gifts in shoes placed by windows. Each night, a different Yule Lad arrives, bringing joy and excitement to families. Another important aspect of Icelandic Christmas is the Jólakötturinn, or the Yule Cat, a giant feline that is said to eat those who do not receive new clothes for Christmas. Families often gather to enjoy traditional foods, such as hangikjöt (smoked lamb) and laufabrauð (leaf bread), creating a warm and festive atmosphere.