Finnish Christmas Tradition of Feeding the Birds
Sometimes we forget that Christmas isn't celebrated only here in the United States. It's a holiday that's celebrating all around the world, with each culture having its own unique traditions.
Being of Scandinavian descent, and having lived in Finland for a year as a child, I love preserving my family heritage.
That means cooking and baking lots of traditional recipes that my Mom taught me and decorating our home with Scandinavian-themed decor around the holidays. That also means feeding the birds.
Finnish Christmas Tradition of Feeding the Birds
In rural areas of Finland and other Scandinavian countries, it's a tradition to hang treats for the wild birds on Christmas morning.
Only after the birds have eaten does the family eat their holiday meal.
I decided to adapt this wonderful tradition and not only feed the wild birds, but also put out a holiday feast for my chickens!
By simply tying a sheaf of wheat (or straw, corn stalks or other grains) into a bundle and scattering seeds and grains like sunflower, millet, safflower or barley around on the ground, you have an easy way to offer your chickens some fun Christmas treats.
