Christmas in Greenland
Christmas in Greenland, or Juullimi Pilluarit, is celebrated by just 56,000 people across the world's largest island. Danish traditions dominate, but Inuit culture adds unique elements. Mattak (raw whale skin) and kiviak (fermented seabird) appear alongside Danish risalamande. The extreme polar darkness makes the season's emphasis on light and warmth especially meaningful.
Christmas in Greenland is celebrated by 56,000 people on the world's largest island, in conditions that range from total polar darkness in the north to a few hours of twilight in the south. The holiday blends Danish traditions (risalamande, decorated trees, gifts on Christmas Eve) with Inuit culture (mattak, suaasat, kaffemik gatherings) in a way found nowhere else. In a land where communities are separated by ice sheets and connected by helicopter, Christmas is the season that brings everyone together.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Greenland celebrate Christmas?
With a blend of Danish and Inuit traditions. Danish customs (Christmas tree, risalamande, gifts on Dec 24) coexist with Inuit foods (mattak, suaasat) and social practices (kaffemik gatherings). Church services are held in both Kalaallisut and Danish.
Traditions & Customs
Kaffemik
An open-house gathering where visitors come and go, drinking coffee and eating cake. Kaffemik is the quintessential Greenlandic social event, held frequently during the Christmas season.
Church Services
The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Greenland holds Christmas services in Kalaallisut (Greenlandic) and Danish. In small settlements, the church is the community center.
Inuit and Danish Blend
Greenlandic Christmas blends Danish traditions (risalamande, decorated tree, gifts on Dec 24) with Inuit foods (mattak, suaasat). The combination is unique in the world.
Polar Darkness
In northern Greenland, the sun does not rise for weeks in December. Christmas celebrations with candles, lights, and community gathering take on heightened significance.
Key Dates
Juullerooq (Christmas Eve)
The main celebration. Danish-style dinner, gifts, church service.
Christmas Days
Community gatherings, visiting, kaffemik.
Christmas Carols
Danish and Greenlandic Carols
Christmas carols are sung in both Danish and Kalaallisut. The blending of languages reflects Greenland's cultural duality.