Denmark

Before Christianity came to the Danes, Christmas Day was a celebration of brighter days, jól, as it occurred just before the winter solstice. Today, dwellings are adorned with nisser - superstitious characters, who are thought to bring protection. Danish families put their Christmas tree in the centre of the room and dance around it while singing carols on December 24th.

The advent wreath symbolizes the start of the Danish Christmas season. One candle is lit every Sunday in December leading up to Christmas Eve on the wreath, which has four candles. The calendar candle is another custom. This candle has 24 lines on it, which are usually ornamented with Christmas designs.