How does it all match?
Julenissen, Father Christmas and Santa Claus
In old times, people in Norway believed that the first owner of a farm lived forever. He was called "haugbonde" or "nisse". At winter solstice, as well as on other important occasions around the year, it was very important not to forget "Nissen" during the celebration. Food was served to him, and presents were given to him, too, so that he would continue to protect the home of the people.Christian stories of course tell us about St. Nicolaus, the bishop of Myra, the man who sold all his personal goods and even the silver of his church in order to help his people. And who is not familiar with the story of the Three Wise Men bringing gifts to the new born Holy Child in Bethlehem?
Also in Norway, presents are an essential part of Christmas celebration. And it is "Julenissen" the children, both small and big, are waiting for at Christmas Eve. No Christmas Eve in Norway is complete without the visit of "Julenissen", who brings presents to everyone. He is called "Father Christmas" or "Santa Claus" in other countries and he appears in his red suit with a big sack filled with presents.
At Christmas time, you can meet "Julenissen" almost everywhere in the Oslo Region -at the Christmas markets, in the streets of Oslo, maybe even in the slopes or the ski tracks in the winter resorts. If you meet him, just say "God Jul!"
At Christmas time, you can meet "Julenissen" almost everywhere in the Oslo Region -at the Christmas markets, in the streets of Oslo, maybe even in the slopes or the ski tracks in the winter resorts. If you meet him, just say "God Jul!"