Since 1966, a giant Yule goat (Julbock) has been erected in the central square (Slottstorget) of the town of Gävle, Sweden on the first day of Advent. The Yule goat is a traditional Scandinavian Yule and Christmas symbol.
The Gävle goat often does not survive until Christmas. It is frequently burned by arsonists. In 1977, it was burned six hours after it was erected. In 2010, two men attempted to kidnap the Gävle goat by helicopter.
So far, non-flammable protection methods, volunteer guards, a fence, and webcams have not prevented its destruction. This year the Gävle goat is being guarded by taxis.
There is a Twitter account for the Gävle goat (Gävlebocken).
References
Gävle Christmas Goat goes up
Gävle goat
Gävle goat targeted in foiled helicopter heist
Julbock: The Swedish Christmas Goat
Sweden's Christmas goat torched yet again
Yule Goat
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