Today is Husband’s day in Iceland

which is more commonly known as Bóndadagur. It is celebrated on the first day of þorri (the fourth month of winter according to the ancient Norse calendar) and dedicated to “the man of the house”. Wives and girlfriends pamper their man, giving him small presents, preparing a good meal or just showing appreciation for their other half.

In the past, the master of the house, was to wake before everyone else and welcome þorri. He did so by hopping around outside, having only one leg in his trousers and underpants. It was also the day, when the master’s wife treated him exceptionally well by preparing delicacies to mark the day.

Is there also a wife’s day you might wonder know? Yes, there is. It is celebrated about a month after Bóndadagur and marks the first day of Goá (the fifth month according to the old Norse calendar). On this day, here in Iceland known as Konudagur, husbands and boyfriends typically surprise their significant other with roses and gifts. This year it is celebrated on February 24^th.