In medieval England, a large ‘Yule’ log would be brought home from the forest on Christmas Eve and here decorated with ribbons. It would then be laid in the hearth until Candlemas Day (2nd February), when it would finally be burned. Part of the Yule log would be kept until the following year to bring the family good fortune. The tradition of the Yule Log is believed to have arisen from the Viking invaders who lit huge bonfires to celebrate their midwinter festival of light.