Uploaded December 2024 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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While Santa Claus comes from America, and St. Nicholas comes from Germany, the Julenisse comes from the Norwegian forest–just behind the family barn. The Julenisse is jolly and happy, but can be temperamental. Stay on his good side by leaving a plate of cookies, Christmas porridge, or lefse. Many farms would make up a bed for the nisse on Christmas Eve, and set an honorary place for him at the table.

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