Got a yule log of 100-year-old lightning-struck oak and a classy offering to burn with; fine Islay Scotch for the blót. Gonna pour one out so Thor will get off his ass and bring the sun back. Hammers high, heathen motherfuckers. May your enemies fall before you in the coming year.
In Sweden and many surrounding parts of Europe, polytheistic tribes celebrated a Midvinterblot or mid-winter-sacrifice, featuring both animal and human sacrifice. The blót was performed by gođi, or priests, at certain cult sites, most of which have churches built upon them now. Midvinterblot paid tribute to the local gods, appealing to them to let go winter's grip. The folk tradition was finally abandoned by 1200, due to missionary persistence.
