Preparations that begin six weeks before Christmas make the holiday season a merry one in Norway, 0.1. Hjellum, former resident there, declared. Baking must be done, the lutefisk prepared, and all chores and farmwork done in advance as much as possible, so that nothing will interfere with the celebration that lasts well over the New Year.
For 24 hours, from the time the Christmas bells ring Christmas eve until late the following day, there is an absolute lull in business, even the railroads and steamships do not run. The stores and business buildings close up until after the New Year. Among many families a big dinner is served on Christmas eve, three or four times as much as the family will eat, then the used dishes are cleared away and the rest is left for the Christmas feast of Yule Sevein or Santa Claus when he comes in the night with presents for the children. Among the Lutheran families the Santa Claus tale is not taught according to Mr. Hjellum, since they teach their children that their presents come from the Savior.
Visiting from house to house is the main diversion during the week's holiday, while villages and communities will give a big ball and invite the residents of another village as guests. New Years Day brings added incentive to the celebration and the two‑day event ends the long holiday.
Source: A History of Foster County 1983 Page 435