Holiday Traditions
This country is credited with starting the tradition of putting up a Christmas tree.
Germany
In this 1990 film, Kevin McCallister is accidentally left home alone while his family travels to Paris.
Home Alone
This popular Christmas song was originally written for Thanksgiving.
Jingle Bells
Often left out for Santa, these two items are the most traditional Christmas Eve snack in the U.S.
Milk and Cookies
This Jewish "Festival of Lights" lasts for eight nights and involves lighting a Menorah.
Hanukkah
Originally made from real silver, this thin, glittery decoration is now usually plastic.
Tinsel
This 2003 movie follows Buddy, a human raised by elves, as he travels to New York City to find his father.
Elf
According to the song "The Twelve Days of Christmas", this many total gifts are given.
364
This festive, creamy beverage is often topped with nutmeg.
Eggnog
Observed from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, this holiday celebrates African-American heritage and culture.
Kwanzaa
In 1955, this organization began its annual tradition of "tracking" Santa's journey on Christmas Eve.
NORAD
In A Christmas Story, this is the specific gift Ralphie desperately wants.
Red Ryder BB Gun
This song by Bing Crosby is the best-selling Christmas single of all time.
White Christmas
This spicy, honey-sweetened biscuit is often used to build edible miniature houses
Gingerbread
In Mexico and parts of the U.S., this 9-day celebration reenacts Mary and Joseph's search for shelter.
Las Posadas
This fruit was traditionally used as a stocking stuffer in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Orange
This actor played six different roles in the 2004 animated film The Polar Express.
Tom Hanks
This holiday song was the first one ever broadcast from space in 1965.
Jingle Bells
In the UK, this dessert is traditionally prepared weeks in advance and may contain a hidden silver coin.
Figgy Pudding
This country has a unique tradition of eating KFC for dinner on Christmas Day.
Japan
In 1836, this was the first U.S. State to declare Christmas an official holiday.
Alabama
Every time this happens in the movie It's a Wonderful Life, an angel gets his wings.
A Bell Rings
In "The Christmas Song" these people are described as having "eyes all aglow".
Tiny Tots
According to the song "The Christmas Song," these are "roasting on an open fire."
Chestnuts
In Italian folklore, this elderly woman (often a witch) delivers gifts to children on Ephiphany Eve.
La Befana