Nearly 200 Guests Gather for Skata Feast in Kópavogur
In Kópavogur, the annual Skata feast has once again attracted nearly 200 guests to the Samskipahöllin. Organized by the equestrian club Sprettur, the event welcomes all enthusiasts of this traditional Icelandic dish. Originally, it started as a small gathering of people who enjoyed Skata and wanted to indulge in this delicacy once a year. Over time, it has grown into a significant event.
“We’ve been working hard to ensure everyone’s safe arrival by sanding and salting the paths,” says Jónína Björk Vilhjálmsdóttir, the chairwoman of Sprettur. She adds that the event is attended by various companies, members of Sprettur, Foxarar, and others from the capital area.
Beyond the Skata: A Social Gathering
Jónína highlights that the gathering is not just about the Skata. It’s also a chance to meet and chat about the happenings of December, all while enjoying the soothing tunes of a pianist and the guidance of an event host. Additionally, there is anticipation for the speech by Linda Björk Gunnlaugsdóttir, the first female chair of the National Association of Equestrian Clubs.
Skata Tastes Better Under the Sun
About 100 kilograms of Skata are sent to Icelanders in Spain for Christmas. The Skata feast kicked off yesterday at the Icelandic bar Nostalgia in Tenerife, where the dish is served again today for lunch and dinner. Herdís Hrönn Árnadóttir, owner of Nostalgia, notes that Icelanders particularly enjoy savoring Skata outdoors. “It must taste better in the sun, wearing shorts and a tank top,” she comments.
Herdís reports that the atmosphere is fantastic. “We started yesterday with the Skata feast, and it probably scored 12 out of 10,” she remarks, standing over the pots, with the Skata in front of her in over 20-degree Celsius weather. In addition, she is preparing fish stew and baking rye bread.
High Demand and Limited Supply
When asked, Herdís mentions that the heat complements the Skata wonderfully. “People say it’s the best Skata they’ve ever had. We’re expecting around 80 people for lunch, and in the evening, just under 60.” However, more than 30 people are still hoping to attend, but unfortunately, it’s sold out. “I just suggest people drop by around 8 PM to see if there are any leftovers. We don’t plan to eat Skata after today.”
Upcoming Festive Menus
Tomorrow, on Christmas Eve, the menu will feature roast pork, and on Christmas Day, hangikjöt will be served. Herdís notes that the New Year’s Eve celebration is already sold out due to increased attendance year over year.
Reflections on the Skata Tradition
The Skata feast is more than just a culinary event; it is a celebration of Icelandic culture and community. It provides an opportunity for Icelanders, both at home and abroad, to connect over shared traditions and memories. The growing popularity of such events underscores a broader trend of cultural preservation and appreciation among Icelandic communities, highlighting the importance of maintaining these customs in an increasingly globalized world.