Tag Archives: Autumnal Equinox

Halloween in Oslo & Chicago

Hey folks, I planned to release this post on Monday, but major tech issues have plagued me. After spending six hours at the Apple store (argh!), my machine is now back up and running … so here we go, a little late ….

I’m jumping out of my current blog timeline for a moment to talk about Halloween, since the festivities just wrapped up this past weekend. (Plus, it’s a welcome distraction from my USA Election Day anxieties.) Halloween ranks high amongst the many odd American customs that seem to fascinate Norwegians. In fact, Norway has recently imported the trick-or-treat tradition, especially in big cities like Oslo. With that in mind, I thought my readers on both sides of the pond might enjoy hearing more about how each country puts its stamp on the event. Continue reading Halloween in Oslo & Chicago

Spirits of the Season

December 6, 2015.  Yep, it’s that time of year again.  Juletid.  (“Yuletide” to you and me.)  When white lights decorate the pine trees, real lanterns announce each entryway, and papers stars can be seen in most every window in Oslo.  The Spikersuppa Skating Rink and Julemarkeds open up along the main tourist drags, where American and Norwegian carols provide the soundtrack for skaters, shoppers, and diners.  Even the Trikk (streetcar) dons holiday finery.   Continue reading Spirits of the Season