festive gonks
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What is a gonk? All you need to know about the Christmas trend

The gonk is a growing Christmas trend that first appeared on our Insta feeds in 2020 – and the festive characters have been absolutely everywhere since.

From wizard-like dolls to gonk bedding and mugs – they’ve found their way across a range of products. But first things first, what is a gonk?

What is a gonk?

Here in the UK, a gonk is rather like a festive gnome, but the history of gonks stems back to Nordic and Scandinavian mythology.

While some may mistake them for a funny little Father Christmas inspired character (which is understandable, thanks to their long beards and pointy hats), they weren’t originally a Christmas character.

Inspired by the gnomes and hobgoblins of Scandinavian myths and legends, according to folklore, these little creatures favour colder weather and like to cosy up in houses – where, if the family welcome them and treat them kindly, they will bring good luck.

However, if the family are not kind, or disrespect the gonk’s home, the bearded characters are said to become mischievous – playing tricks and causing havoc for their humans.

With their nose and beard poking out of their tall pointy hats, they’re super cute and who doesn’t love a bit of magical folklore at Christmas?

Plus, popping them on the Christmas tree or around the house will make it feel extra warm and inviting – and that’s before the tales of bringing good luck!

Range of gonks at The Range
Photo: The Range

What do they have to do with Christmas? 

Although, with their beards, gonks look a lot like mini Nordic style Father Christmas,’ they’re actually not technically Christmas decorations.

But, over the years they’ve been woven into Christmas tales and now they’ve found themselves a big part of the festive period.

There’s also a tradition of leaving out a bowl of porridge for them over the winter solstice.

Instagram star Stacey Solomon is a huge fan and calls one from her vast collection ‘Norman’ – a name which perfectly suits their gnome-like appearance.

Lots of high street stores have jumped on the band-wagon and now sell Christmas honks, including The Range, Aldi and Matalan, which all come with a reasonable price tag.

christmas decorations from aldi under the christmas tree
Photo: Aldi

What is the difference between a gonk and a gnome?

While the two can be easily confused, a gnome has German origins, dates to around the 1800s and was traditionally made from clay (they only became more widely made out of plastic in the 1960s).

Meanwhile, gonks are more commonly made from wool, fabric and felt.

And, although gnomes are also meant to bring good luck, Scandinavian gonks date back far earlier – first referenced in around the 1600s.

How to style your gonk

Gonks make for the perfect festive ornament to fill any awkward gap in your home this Christmas.

Here’s how to style them:

Cosy up your bedroom by styling up a festive corner with a cosy blanket, some festive decorations and of course, a gonk!

Place one either side of a fireplace to make it a standout feature in your living room

Style up your porch and create a warm welcome this Christmas with a standing gonk

Group three together that are different heights to create your own little family!

Display one or two under your Christmas tree to hide the base of the tree as well as adding some festive cheer

Can you get an Easter gonk too?

Yes! Recent years have seen Easter gonks popping up with pastel hats and flowers.

Add them to your Easter tablescapes or even in an Easter wreath.

Halloween gonks started popping up everywhere over the last few years too – here are some of our favourites.

Cute gonks from The Range
Photo: The Range