The Yule Goat is one of the oldest Scandinavian and Northern European Yule and Christmas symbols. It stems from Germanic pagan celebrations of Yule, though it’s specific connotation was different in each country.

    In Finland, the Yule Goat was a hideous creature said to demand gifts on Yule/Christmas, but in Scandinavia it was said to be a spirit who appeared to make sure holiday preparations were done correctly. During the 19th century the role switched to that of a gift-giver, and by the end of the century the image of a goat was replaced entirely by that of Father Christmas. 

    Today in Scandinavia straw goats are still a popular Christmas decoration, and Santa Claus’ Finnish name, Joulupukki, translates to ‘Yule Goat’.

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The Yule Goat is one of the oldest Scandinavian and Northern European Yule and Christmas symbols. It stems from Germanic pagan celebrations of Yule, though it’s specific connotation was different in each country. In Finland, the Yule Goat was a hideous creature said to demand gifts on Yule/Christmas, but in Scandinavia it was said to be a spirit who appeared to make sure holiday preparations were done correctly. During the 19th century the role switched to that of a gift-giver, and by the end of the century the image of a goat was replaced entirely by that of Father Christmas.  Today in Scandinavia straw goats are still a popular Christmas decoration, and Santa Claus’ Finnish name, Joulupukki, translates to ‘Yule Goat’.
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