Christmas Vocabulary
A plant with red berries often used to decorate at Christmas
Holly
Legendary figure who delivers gifts in the Netherlands on December 5
Sinterklaas
A hot drink made with milk, sugar, and melted chocolate
Hot chocolate
Hanging these allows Santa to leave small gifts inside
Stockings
Country where children receive gifts from the “Three Kings” on January 6
Spain
A traditional green tree decorated with lights and ornaments
Christmas Tree
Creature from German folklore who punishes naughty children
Krampus
A traditional cake with dried fruits and marzipan
Fruitcake
Singing these songs door-to-door is a common tradition in many countries.
Christmas carols
Country where a large advent calendar is displayed on the Rathaus each December
Germany
A round decoration for the Christmas tree
Bauble / Ornament
Reindeer known for guiding Santa’s sleigh through fog.
Rudolph
Sweet dough twisted into sticks and often striped red and white.
Candy Cane
Celebrating the day after Christmas with sports, shopping, or charity
Boxing Day
Country where Christmas Eve is celebrated with “Feast of the Seven Fishes”
Italy
Hung by the fireplace for Santa to fill with gifts.
Stocking
Old woman in Italy who delivers gifts to children on January 6
La Befana
British dessert steamed for hours with brandy and spices
Christmas Pudding
Traditional British ritual where pudding is ignited with alcohol before serving
Flaming Christmas pudding
Country that celebrates St. Lucia’s Day with processions of girls wearing candles
Sweden