Thorlac's mass

Mass of St. Thorlac (Þorláksmessa (Icelandic pronunciation: ​[ˈθɔrlauxsˌmɛsːa]), is an Icelandic holiday. It is celebrated every December 23. The celebration honors Þorlákur Þórhallsson, bishop of Skálholt, who was canonized and recognized as the patron saint of Iceland in 1984. He died on December 23, 1193. The day is also celebrated in the Faroe Islands, where it's called Tollaksmessa (Faroese pronunciation: [ˈtʰɔtlaksˌmɛsːa]).

In modern times, Þorláksmessa became part of Christmas. Many people buy Christmas presents and finish decorating their houses and Christmas tree. On Þorláksmessa evening in Reykjavík, many stroll down Laugavegur.

In Iceland it is customary to eat buried and fermented skate along with potatoes on Þorláksmessa. The ammonia-infused odor of fermented skate is quite strong, similar to that of hákarl.[1] This pungent dish is eaten it as a continuation of tradition.