Holiday Debates
Some argue that this holiday dessert, soaked in brandy and traditionally set ablaze, is outdated. It dates back to medieval England.
Christmas pudding.
According to legend, Santa checks his Naughty and Nice list twice with help from this magical artifact that monitors children's behavior.
A Snow globe (or crystal ball)
This creamy, spiced holiday drink is often served cold and made with milk, sugar, eggs, and sometimes a splash of rum or bourbon.
Eggnog.
In It's a Wonderful Life, the angel Clarence earns his wings by helping this character realize the value of his life.
George Bailey.
In Iceland, the Yule Lads are mischievous figures who visit children in the 13 nights leading up to Christmas. Each leaves behind either gifts or rotting potatoes depending on this specific item.
A shoe (left in the window)
The debate over Die Hard as a Christmas movie stems partly from the fact that it was released in this month of 1988.
July.
Santa's sleigh must travel at this approximate speed to deliver presents to every household in one night, according to physicist. (closest wins)
2-5 million mph
This traditional Christmas cookie, often shaped like men or houses, is flavored with molasses and a mix of warm spices like cinnamon and ginger.
Gingerbread cookies.
In Elf, Buddy the Elf's diet consists of the four main food groups: candy, candy canes, candy corns, and this.
Syrup (maple)
In this South American country, fireworks and family feasts are central to the Christmas Eve celebration known as La Nochebuena.
Argentina
This holiday greeting sparked debates over inclusivity versus tradition when used in place of "Merry Christmas", especially in retail settings.
Happy holidays
This 19th century American political cartoonist helped popularize the modern image of Santa, complete with his workshop at the North Pole.
Thomas Nest.
A popular Christmas dessert in the South, this layered cake gets its name from its fluffy white frosting and shredded topping.
Coconut cake.
The original story for How the Grinch Stole Christmas was written by this beloved children's author.
Dr. Suess.
In Japan, it has become a tradition to celebrate Christmas with a meal from this fast-food chain, thanks to a wildly successful 1970's marketing campaign.
Kentucky Fried Chicken
Some people find hanging this "luxurious" but messy decoration on Christmas trees controversial; it was once made of lead in the 20th century.
Tinsel
Santa's lead elf in charge of toy production is known by this name in some holiday tales, but his role varies across cultures.
Bernard.
Often a centerpiece on Christmas dinner tables, this roasted meat, coated with a sweet glaze and topped with pineapple slices and maraschino cherries, is a classic American holiday dish.
Glazed ham.
In Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, Kevin stays at this famous luxury hotel, where he encounters a future U.S. president.
The Plaza Hotel.
In the Philippines, this festival features enormous and intricate lanterns, symbolizing the star of Bethlehem. It takes place in the city of San Fernando and is known as the "Christmas Capital of the Philippines".
The giant lantern festival (ligligan parul)
Though it begins with jingle bells and ends with a family reunion, this 1987 action classic is not considered a Christmas movie by purists, who argue that its explosive plot is more "kaboom" than "fa-la-la".
Lethal Weapon
In 1927, Finland officially declared that Santa lives not at the north Pole, but at this location inside their borders.
Korvatunturi.
Associated with Pennsylvania Dutch Christmas feasts, this sweet bread contains a cinnamon swirl and is often baked in a loaf or shaped into a wreath.
Christmas stollen
In The Polar express, the first gift of Christmas is this item, which plays an important role in the boy's belief in Santa.
Sleigh bells.
In the Ukraine, it is considered good luck to decorate a Christmas tree with ornaments shaped like this creature, inspired by a folktale about a poor widow and her children.
Spider or spider web.