Timeout: Sveinsson and His Yule Lads are Home!

TIMEOUT! Let’s take a minute to really get to know Arni Sveinsson!

What holiday traditions did you grow up with in your home country that are most meaningful to you?

We have 13 Santas and celebrate Christmas and open presents on the 24th.

How are holidays back home different from how they’re celebrated in the U.S., especially on campus?

I think the biggest difference between the celebrations is that we celebrate mainly on the 24th rather than the 25th.

Are there any foods, meals, or treats that are a must-have for you during the holidays?

Yes, definitely. Traditional Icelandic Christmas foods are lamb, hangikjöt (smoked lamb), laufabrauo, and homemade desserts. I usually only eat these foods during the holidays, so they make the season feel more special.

What’s one holiday tradition you miss the most while being away from home?

I haven’t missed Christmas yet, so I’ve enjoyed all of my home traditions so far.

Have you started any new holiday traditions since coming to LSU or living in the U.S.?

I haven’t started any yet, but I would like to!

How do you stay connected with family and friends back home during the holidays?

I always FaceTime with my family until I am able to travel home for break.

Do the holidays affect your training or wellness routine in any way? If so, how do you balance both?

A little bit, but I try to use these days to rest and train effectively, while also enjoying time with my family.

Is there a holiday or celebration from your culture that you wish more people here knew about?

Something special that I wish more people knew about Icelandic Christmas is the 13 Santas. We have 13 different Santas called Yule Lads that give us a small present each of the 13 days leading up to Christmas.

What does the holiday season mean to you personally, especially as a student-athlete far from home?

It means a lot as it is my reset button. It is when I reflect on the year that is finishing and get ready for next year. It is also so important that I am getting valuable time with family that I don’t get to see too much.

If you could bring one tradition from your home country to LSU during the holidays, what would it be and why?

I would bring the food to LSU because it is something very unique and I think it tastes very good and would be enjoyed here.