Alfar is a common term used for both Liosalfar and Svaralfar in Norse, Scandinavian, and Icelandic legend and mythology.

Alfar are similar to what some might call Elves or Sidhe in both appearance and nature: tall, pointy-ears, fine bone structure, dextrous, and capable at magic and music.

The Alfar are from the realm of Alfheim, one of the Nine Worlds of Norse mythology, which can be reached via Bifrost, the rainbow bridge. It has also been told that the ley lines in Scandinavian countries represent a "curtain" between Alfheim and Midgard, and that some of the Alfar have the ability to step across that curtain - most often, the Liosalfar.

The Liosalfar are fair in hair and skin coloration, and are somewhat similar in nature to light elves in nature. They also tend to be a bit more friendly to humans/mortals than the Svartalfar. The Liosalfar live above ground in the forests of Alfheim.

The Svartalfar live mostly below ground in tunnels and caverns in Alfheim. They are supposed to be consumate smiths and artisans.

According to legend, both races of Alfar are supposed to be ruled by Frey of the Vanir. Both races stood with the Aesir and Vanir against the Jotuns (giants of Jotunheim), and both races are supposed to do so again at the battle of Ragnarok.