On 27 November a Christmas tree lighting event in the brewery premises presented under the title "Christmas in traditional and untraditional way" was organised by the Dalešice Brewery together with its Czech and Icelandic partners. The aim was not only to present traditional customs of both countries at Advent time, but also to introduce visitors to traditional Christmas dishes of Iceland.
On this occasion, visitors had the chance to taste the traditional Icelandic Christmas menu, which consists of the following courses: smoked leg of lamb, sweet potato puree, juniper sauce, chocolate, fennel, pickled vegetables and bulgur. They couldalso try the Icelandic Christmas bread,traditionallymadeduring the Advent time when the whole family meets together for baking it.
The visitors could experience on one hand that Icelandic Christmas customs and dishes are completely different from ours, such as sweet potatoes served in Iceland, but on the other hand they could see there are some common dishes for both cultures such asa very popular gingerbread.Those who tasted both gingerbread recipes could compare similarities and differences in their taste.
As a surprise,especially for children some of theIcelandic colouring books were showed to explain further traditions linked to Christmas time.The story talks about thirteenelves,jolly little fellows that help Santa with the distribution of presents. Each of them has a special meaning, power and Icelandicname, for instanceStekkjastaur - Woodcutter or Askasleikir - Bowl Eater.According to tradition, they bring small gifts to children's shoes from 12 to 24 December.Children and also their parents appreciated this activity prepared by the organisers and were interested in knowing more about the Icelandic traditions.
The evening Advent atmosphere was strengthened by singing of Christmas carols, which all the visitors were happy to participatein by the lit Christmas tree and sparklers.
