The Yule log, also known as the Yule clog or Christmas block, is a winter tradition in Europe and North America involving the burning of a specially selected log on a hearth. Its origins are unclear but may trace back to Proto-Indo-European religion, similar to practices in Celtic, Germanic, Baltic, and Slavic paganism.

As an "emblem of divine light," the Yule log is part of customs centered around Midwinter, which included feasting, drinking, and sacrifices (blót). Many of these traditions, like the Yule goat and Yule boar (Sonargöltr), have influenced modern customs such as Christmas ham and Yule singing, reflecting the significance of these celebrations in pre-Christian times. Merry Christmas 2024! https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yule_log