Traditions in a row

We have been busy with traditions the last couple of days, on Monday we had Bolludagur - a joyous occasion to indulge in a variety of cream buns, then yesterday we had Sprengidagur. The name of this Icelandic day can be translated to "Explosion Day", which suggests that you can eat till you burst - traditional dishes were served on this day which are lentil soup and salted meat "saltkjöt og baunir".

Then finally today, Wednesday, is no exception. As today is Ash Wednesday or Öskudagur, as it is called in Iceland.

The day is characterized by children wandering around in town in costumes. They visit places of business and ask for candy. A treat they have to earn by singing. Most have prepared by rehearsing for some time for the occasion and even created their own song text and costumes and put a lot of effort into their performance.