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The vast, frozen expanse of Siberia is home to numerous indigenous groups, including the Nenets, Evenki, and Sakha (Yakuts). These communities have long celebrated the winter period with unique rituals and customs tied to their environment and spiritual beliefs. Over centuries, their traditions have evolved, influenced by Russian Orthodox Christianity and modern practices. While the Western concept of Christmas is not universally celebrated, Siberia’s indigenous peoples mark this season with fascinating rituals that blend old and new.The vast, frozen expanse of Siberia is home to numerous indigenous groups, including the Nenets, Evenki, and Sakha (Yakuts). These communities have long celebrated the winter period with unique rituals and customs tied to their environment and spiritual beliefs. Over centuries, their traditions have evolved, influenced by Russian Orthodox Christianity and modern practices. While the Western concept of Christmas is not universally celebrated, Siberia’s indigenous peoples mark this season with fascinating rituals that blend old and new.
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The Arctic winter is a season of magic and endurance for Inuit communities across Greenland, Canada, and Alaska. Far from the commercial hustle of many holiday traditions, Inuit celebrations of Christmas and New Year embody a deep connection with the land, community, and spiritual practices. Among the most distinctive celebrations is The Arctic winter is a season of magic and endurance for Inuit communities across Greenland, Canada, and Alaska. Far from the commercial hustle of many holiday traditions, Inuit celebrations of Christmas and New Year embody a deep connection with the land, community, and spiritual practices. Among the most distinctive celebrations is Quviasukvik, the Inuit winter festival, which coincides with the return of the sun and new year celebrations in January, embracing the cycles of nature and survival.
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The Sámi people, Indigenous to the northern regions of Scandinavia, Finland, and parts of Russia, have long celebrated the winter season with unique customs and beliefs that reflect their deep connection to nature and the Arctic environment. While many Sámi traditions predate Christianity, the arrival of Christian practices introduced a fascinating blend of old and new. Christmas, or Jul as it is known in Scandinavia, is a time of celebration, community, and reflection for the Sámi, whose traditions honor both their ancient cultural roots and evolving heritage.
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Scandinavia's holiday season would not be complete without the Nisse, a mythical household spirit steeped in rich folklore. Known as the "Nisse" in Norway and Denmark, the "Tomte" in Sweden, and the "Tonttu" in Finland, this figure is more than just a cheerful holiday mascot—it is a respected and sometimes temperamental guardian of the farmstead, believed to protect families, livestock, and property from misfortune. The Nisse tradition blends ancient Norse beliefs with Christmas celebrations, creating a unique spirit of seasonal cheer and responsibility.
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Last year, a company from northern Norway won the prestigious award. Now the search begins for next year's finalists for the High North Young Entrepreneur award. Present your business idea to an international audience and compete for 50,000 NOK in funding! Deadline: February 5th, 2025.
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Nomination is open now!
Nominate outstanding individuals or organizations making significant contributions to Arctic development.
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In the Arctic regions, Christmas traditions blend folklore, community spirit, and the powerful presence of winter landscapes. From the mischievous Yule Lads in Iceland to the helpful Julenisser in Scandinavia and the unique Indigenous customs of the Sámi and Siberian peoples, Arctic Christmas celebrations showcase a rich variety of customs and cultural expressions.In the Arctic regions, Christmas traditions blend folklore, community spirit, and the powerful presence of winter landscapes. From the mischievous Yule Lads in Iceland to the helpful Julenisser in Scandinavia and the unique Indigenous customs of the Sámi and Siberian peoples, Arctic Christmas celebrations showcase a rich variety of customs and cultural expressions.
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The Arctic Yearbook 2024 was formally launched on the 18th November, marking another milestone in the study and understanding of Arctic governance, economics, environment, and society. This year’s edition, themed "Arctic Relations: Transformations, Legacies, and Futures," is now available on the Arctic Portal and its dedicated website, www.arcticyearbook.com.
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The 29th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) is being held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to 22, 2024.
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In Arctic Policies of the Nordic Countries, published in The New Nordic Lexicon on September 17, 2024, author Kat Hodgson examines how Arctic policies offer a window into the pressing global issues of our time, as well as the unique dynamics within the Nordic and Arctic regions.
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Today, November 7, is International Inuit Day—a day dedicated to honoring the Inuit peoples and their remarkable culture, resilience, and contributions to the world.Today, November 7, is International Inuit Day—a day dedicated to honoring the Inuit peoples and their remarkable culture, resilience, and contributions to the world. Celebrated annually, this day recognizes not only the Inuit’s rich history and traditions but also highlights the diversity within Inuit identities, their unifying language, and the challenges they continue to face in an ever-changing world.
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The Nordic Council held its 76The Nordic Council held its 76th Session in Reykjavík, Iceland from 28–31 October, focusing on “Peace and Security in the Arctic.”