Initially, the days preceding Lent were marked by abundant pyramids in many countries. And in the 19th century, a new tradition was also brought to Iceland from Denmark, which was liked by local bakeries, — namely, to consume a special type of cake filled with whipped cream and watered with glaze.
Cake Day in Iceland (Buns Day or Bolludagur) is celebrated annually across the country on Monday, two days before Ash Wednesday.
Tradition immediately won the hearts of children. Soon it became a custom, armed with buffoonish decorated whip, to wake up parents early, shouting the name of the cakes: «Bollur, bollur!». How many times will you shout — so many cakes and get it. Initially, however, one was supposed to whip oneself. Perhaps this custom dates back to the pagan rite of awakening the forces of nature: perhaps it is addressed to the passions of Christ, but now it has turned into a national pastime.
Also on this day, children had to march through the streets, sing and beg for cakes in bakeries. It was also a common custom to knock a cat out of a barrel«, however, in all cities except Akureyri, the custom moved to Ash Day.
Now bollur cakes appear in bakeries a few days before the — holiday itself to the delight of children and all lovers of sweet pastries.