Christmas Words & Expressions
What do people say instead of “hello” at Christmas?
Merry Christmas
Who wrote A Christmas Carol?
Charles Dickens
In which country did Christmas trees first appear widely?
Germany
In which country is Santa called “Father Christmas”?
United Kingdom
In which country do people hide a pickle ornament in the Christmas tree?
What does “to deck the halls” mean?
To decorate a house or room for Christmas
What is the name of the boy who meets walking snow in a famous story?
Frosty
Which Roman festival influenced Christmas celebrations?
Saturnalia
In Australia, why is Christmas often celebrated outdoors?
Because it is summer in December there.
In Catalonia (Spain), what unusual figure is included in some Christmas decorations, known for “pooping” presents?
Caga Tió (the Christmas log)
What is the meaning of “Christmas cheer”?
A feeling of happiness and festive spirit during Christmas
In A Christmas Carol, who is Scrooge visited by?
Three ghosts
When was Christmas declared a federal holiday in the USA?
1870
In which country do people celebrate “Réveillon,” a long Christmas Eve dinner?
France
In Venezuela, how do people traditionally get to early Christmas morning church services?
Roller-skating
What does the phrase “tidings of comfort and joy” mean?
News that brings happiness and peace, often used in Christmas carols
What fairy-tale character cracks nuts at Christmas?
The Nutcracker
Which queen popularized the decorated Christmas tree in Britain?
Queen Victoria
In Sweden, what is the name of the Christmas figure who delivers presents before Santa?
The Yule Goat (Julbock)
In Iceland, what is the name of the 13 mischievous Christmas figures that visit children before Christmas?
The Yule Lads (Jólasveinar)
What does the expression “trim one’s Christmas list” mean?
To reduce the number of people or items you plan to give gifts to
Who is the Norse god connected with early winter gift-giving traditions?
Odin
What early Christian event was chosen to match winter celebrations?
The celebration of Jesus’ birth.
In which country is it traditional to eat KFC for Christmas dinner?
Japan
In Ukraine, what unusual item is traditionally placed on the Christmas tree for good luck?
A spider and its web