On 3 December, the traditional Christmas tree lighting took place in the Dalešice Brewery. This time, the pre-Christmas atmosphere was enhanced by fresh snow, which illustrated the uniqueness of the Advent season. The fresh snow provided also space for spontaneous fun for children who came to the event together with their parents.
As every year, the theatre associationDUSOT sang several carols, the children recited poems and then the Christmas tree lighting followed. Visitors could warm themselves with punch or tea. Also, pancakes made of various doughs such as poppy seed, malt and potato were served.
Thanks to the cooperation with the Icelandic partner, the visitors had the opportunity to learn already for the second time about the traditional customs observed at Christmas time in Iceland. In particular, the meaning of the so-called "Christmas cat," in Icelandic“Jólakötturinn,” was explained. This huge and mischievous cat has been known in Icelandic folklore for centuries. It comes to people's homes at Christmas. It roams the snowy landscape and, according to legend, eats people who have not received any new clothes from their loved ones before Christmas Eve.
Organizers prepared also the presentation of some of our well-known or lesser-known customs, such as the binding of the Christmas table: before the Christmas Eve dinner, the legs of the table were bound with a chain or rope (especially the custom of peasants and farmers) to ensure that next year everyone would gather again at the Christmas Eve table.
During the event, presenting both Czech and Icelandic traditions and customs, people could taste traditional Icelandic Christmas bread as well as the bread baked according to the recipe of the local chef.