Giđđadálvi - spring-winter (february - march)

Giđđadálvi means spring-winter in the northern sámi language. These winter months in Finnmark can in short or long periods be very hard and challenging for both reindeer and owners. The constant change between freezing and above zero temperatures, strong winds, and weather all affect the reindeers’ ability to feed when there is a layer of ice on the snow. As a result, the herd becomes more vulnerable during the last few months of winter, so it is especially important for the owners to preserve the welfare of the animals. Therefore, they provide them with specially developed feed concentrates, hay bales, or lichen. In the Sami areas, this also marks the beginning of the wedding and confirmation season as this traditionally is the time of year when families come together before the reindeer are moved to the summer pastures. Confirmations and weddings in the Sami culture are major events and can gather up to 5000 guests.