Cream Bun Day - Explosion Day - Ash Wednesday!

Introduced by Norwegian and Danish bakers in the late 19th century, this tradition falls on the Monday before Ash Wednesday, setting the stage for the upcoming festivities of Shrove Tuesday or 'Sprengidagur'.

But it's not just about the treats! Bolludagur is extra special for Icelandic children who eagerly rise early to play a playful game. They attempt to sneak up on their still-sleeping parents and, if successful, they get to lightly spank them with a 'bolluvöndur' (a bun paddle decorated for the occasion)! For every tap, there's a tasty reward – a cream bun!

And as we look forward to 'Sprengidagur' or Shrove Tuesday or the literal translation Explotion Day, let's not forget its quirky tradition! On this day, Icelanders traditionally indulge in 'saltkjöt og baunir' – salted meat (possibly horse) and beans, eating to the point of feeling stuffed. It might sound a bit messy, but fortunately, it's not meant to be taken literally!

And after all the indulgence, we turn our attention to Ash Wednesday, or as it's known in Icelandic, 'Öskudagur'. This marks the beginning of Lent, a period of 46 days leading up to Easter. But Öskudagur is not just about solemnity – it's also a time for joy and celebration! Known as the Icelandic Carnival, children dress up in costumes and roam the neighborhoods singing to people in exchange for candy.