Overview of Thorrablot

The midwinter feast Thorrablot in Iceland is celebrated at any time during the month of Þorri, starting on the first Friday after January 19th. This period marks the 13th week or 4th month of winter on the traditional Scandinavian calendar. Thorrablot is a north Germanic sacrificial celebration honoring a winter spirit known as Thorri, unique to Iceland. Its origins trace back to the cultural rituals of the Viking Age and it witnessed a revival in the 19th century. Today, Thorrablot holds significant importance within Iceland’s cultural heritage.

Taking place during the coldest, darkest days of winter, Thorrablot features foods that often embody the preservation methods of yesteryear. Many dishes served are smoked or pickled remnants from the previous year’s harvest, reflecting Iceland’s rich Viking history.

How to Celebrate Thorrablot

Traditionally, the Thorrablot celebration commences with a communal dinner. The feast is characterized by traditional Viking fare, utilizing naturally preserved foods, which include items that are smoked, cured, salted, or matured. Expect to encounter local delicacies such as fermented shark, smoked lamb, sour lamb breast, liver sausage, blood sausage, rye bread, flatbreads, and dried fish, often accompanied by a shot of Brennivin, Iceland’s potent schnapps.

This unique Thorrablot cuisine, known as Thorramatur, can be found in various Icelandic restaurants throughout January and early February. However, due to the unconventional nature of the foods and the alcoholic beverages served, it is advisable that this be an adults-only event.

Following the dinner, participants engage in group games, traditional songs, and storytelling, all while enjoying more Brennivin to offset any lingering flavors. Consequently, the evening usually culminates in dancing that often extends until dawn, marking the end of the Thorrablot festivities.

If you wish to discover more about Thorrablot dinners and special events during your visit to Iceland, consider reaching out to the reception at your accommodation or visiting the local tourist office in Reykjavik for event calendars and ticket availability.