Yule (sometimes referred to as Jul or Jól) specifically first began being celebrated around the 4th century. However, even an old holiday like Yule wasn't the first of its kind. Its predecessor was known as Saturnalia and it was celebrated by the Romans, and like Yule it was a winter solstice celebration. They share many of the same aspects including lasting multiple days and feasting (Eriksson).  For the Romans this god was Saturn and sacrifices were also made in his honor. Saturnalia is no longer a common celebration.

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