Iceland has such an unusual holiday as Sunny Coffee Day… In winter, many areas of this country plunge into pitch darkness, not so much due to the country’s proximity to the Arctic Circle, but due to the mountainous relief. Therefore, in many valleys, the appearance of the first rays of the sun from behind the mountain has always been perceived as a prelude to the coming spring, as its golden banner.
The peasants from the neighboring estates gathered in the agreed place, trying to bake pancakes, to have time to brew them, and until the capricious sun disappeared behind the peaks again. The fun continued also after sunset and resumed with the new appearance of the sun, until its light again became commonplace.
Despite Iceland’s remoteness from the co-producing powers, This hot, invigorating drink, which appeared in 1772, immediately won the hearts of the Icelanders. Apart from coffee, only tobacco and alcohol were in high demand, regardless of the ability of the population to provide themselves with essential products.
Coffee was exactly that outlet, that minimal luxury for an emaciated hungry peasant, which made him feel like a man. And enjoy the long-awaited appearance of the sun with your neighbors!
The date of the celebration, of course, depends on the appearance of the sun in a particular area, however, in large settlements it is customary to average and fix the date.
Today, for example, we have a reason to raise a cup of tea or other favorite drink to the residents of Reykjavik who have waited for their sun, which we will gladly do, celebrating the morning with a cup:
or a cup
Good morning and sunny days!