'Jul' (Yule in English) was a time in Nordic and Germanic cultures of yore that was dedicated to celebrating winter and the Solstice. Nowadays, 'Jul' equates to Christmas in Sweden. I have always preferred to say however that I celebrate Jul instead of Christmas because of my own beliefs. During this time of Jul, nature is brought indoors (hence the Yule-tree, and straw decorations), and is also enjoyed outside (a quick pre-solstice surf for us!). Candles are lit and of course large quantities of food and drink is consumed. In Sweden, the Yule goat (Julboken) symbolizes the goats that were sacrificed during this time, but now it is an endearing sign that the time for Jul is here. Happy Solstice everyone and 'God Jul!'