While in Iceland, I made a rustic vínarkaka in a Reykjavík kitchen with ingredients from the Bónus grocery store. The eggs were incredibly yellow, the butter was the most buttery ever, the flour was fluffier, the sugar more granular, the cream was heavenly, the cardamom was an extract, and the resulting cake character was totally different than one made in my Ontario kitchen.

For Western Icelandic families, reading together is more than just a bedtime ritual – it’s a means of cultural preservation, a way to pass on stories that reflect Iceland’s rich heritage. From enchanting tales of the Yule lads to the legendary Viking sagas, Icelandic children’s literature provides a fun and engaging way to connect younger generations with their roots. By sharing these books, families can ignite imaginations, spark an interest in history, and preserve a shared cultural identity.

Each year, the Icelandic Canadian Club of British Columbia (ICCBC) grants scholarships to British Columbia residents of Icelandic ancestry who are beginning or continuing a program of post-secondary education. Awards are given according to scholastic achievement and connection to the club. Applicant, parents, or grandparents must be members in good standing. Applicants must be full-time students registered at an accredited post-secondary institution.