Santa Claus may be coming to towns across the world this December, but in Iceland children await not just one Santa Claus, but 13 trolls known as the 'Yule Lads' who come to town during the 13 days before Christmas.
ADVERTISEMENTSanta Claus may be coming to towns across the world this December, but in Iceland children await not just one Santa Claus, but 13 trolls known as the 'Yule Lads' who come to town in the two weeks before Christmas.
Until the 20th century, the trolls, who are brothers, were mischievous and stories of them were used to torment children.
They include Stufur, or Stubby, who is extremely short and eats crusts left in pans; Pottaskefill, or Pot-Scraper, who snatches leftovers; and Hurdaskellir or Door-Slammer, who likes to slam doors at night.
Today, children enjoy favors from the 'Yule Lads' for the 13 days leading to Christmas, which Icelanders celebrate on the 24th of December.
That means 13 extra presents for Christmas.