Julebukking

What it is

This custom takes place in the days between Christmas and New Year. Groups of people, known as Julebukkers, dress in elaborate disguises and face masks. They travel from house to house, engaging with residents in a game of identification. Neighbors attempt to guess who is hiding behind the masks. In some versions, the visitors sing Christmas carols before receiving treats like candy or drinks. A unique rule in one variation requires at least one member of the visited household to join the group and continue the journey to the next home.

Origins and history

The tradition has roots in pre-Christian Yule celebrations. Historically, participants wore goatskins and carried goat heads while visiting homes. Christian missionaries later adapted the practice, separating it from its pagan origins. The Yule Goat became a lasting symbol of Scandinavian Christmas, often appearing as a straw ornament with a red ribbon under the tree. German and Scandinavian immigrants brought the custom to America, where it persists in rural areas with strong Nordic heritage.

How it is kept

Visitors disguise their voices and body language to maintain the masquerade. The goal is to entertain the hosts while keeping their identities secret until the treats are consumed. Offering holiday snacks and beverages is a standard courtesy. Once the guests are identified and the food is eaten, the group moves on. This practice shares similarities with modern Halloween trick-or-treating but is distinct in its seasonal timing and specific cultural context within Scandinavia and immigrant communities.

How Julebukking is kept

Groups of costumed individuals visit homes between Christmas and New Year. They wear masks and disguise their voices to hide their identities. Neighbors try to guess who is under the costume. Visitors may sing carols or simply socialize. Hosts offer candy and drinks. In some cases, a family member joins the group to visit the next house. The custom ends when identities are revealed and treats are shared.

When and where

It occurs annually between Christmas and New Year's Day. The exact dates vary slightly by year but always fall within this winter holiday period.

The tradition originated in Scandinavia. It was once common across all Nordic countries. Today, it is mostly observed in rural American communities with large Scandinavian populations, such as parts of Alaska and Minnesota.

What Julebukking means

The custom evolved from pagan Yule rituals involving goat skins. Christian influence transformed it into a secular holiday activity. The Yule Goat remains a key symbol, representing the transition from ancient traditions to modern Christmas celebrations. It emphasizes community bonding and playful mystery during the darkest time of the year.

Days Julebukking is marked

Questions people ask about Julebukking

See also

ChristmasA festival of Jesus's birth, kept on 25 December with gifts, lights and shared mealsHalloweenAn annual observance on 31 October marking the eve of All Saints' Day, rooted in Christian tradition and Celtic heritageChristmas treeA decorated evergreen or artificial tree placed indoors to mark the Christmas season.HanukkahAn eight-day Jewish festival marking the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of a single day'

Good reading and sources

• Julebukking on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Traditions differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-04.