Anything but Christmas – December Holidays
Observed on December 26, this British holiday began in the Victorian era as a day when the upper class gave servants time off and a gift.
What is Boxing Day?
On November 1, the singer of this double-platinum hit declares “IT’S TIME!” to begin playing it.
What is “All I Want for Christmas Is You”?
In this European country, children receive gifts on Epiphany Eve from the Befana, a witch-like figure.
What is Italy?
Their noses appear to “glow” on thermal cameras thanks to dense blood vessels—Rudolph would be proud.
What is the reindeer?
This modern sport evolved from an activity known as “snurfing.”
What is snowboarding?
Beginning on December 18, this eight-day Jewish Festival of Lights commemorates oil that lasted miraculously for eight days during a 165 B.C. battle.
What is Hanukkah?
Despite her mature voice, Brenda Lee was only 13 when she recorded this now-iconic holiday tune.
What is “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree”?
Krampusnacht is celebrated here on December 5, when costumed demons parade through the streets to scare misbehaving children.
What is Austria?
The official bird of Quebec, this white raptor symbolizes the province’s harsh winters and vast landscapes.
What is the snowy owl?
The first recorded indoor hockey game was played in 1875 at the Victoria Skating Rink in this Canadian city.
What is Montreal?
Created in 1966 by Maulana Karenga, this December 26 to January 1 celebration honours African-American heritage.
What is Kwanzaa?
Recognized as the first song played in space, this tune was performed with a smuggled harmonica and bells aboard Gemini 6A in 1965.
What is “Jingle Bells”?
The joulusauna, or Christmas sauna, is a beloved Christmas Eve ritual in this Nordic nation.
What is Finland?
Though often associated with Antarctica, this species also lives naturally in South America, Africa, and Australia.
What is the penguin?
As of today, this is the only city to have hosted both the Summer and Winter Olympics.
What is Beijing?
Falling between December 21 and January 1, this event marks the shortest day of the year and is observed with ceremonies by many Indigenous nations.
What is the Winter Solstice?
In 1984, this British duo’s holiday hit raised more money for the Ethiopian Famine Appeal than Band Aid’s song - even though Band Aid blocked it from reaching Christmas Number 1.
What is “Last Christmas” by Wham!?
The Night of the Radishes - featuring elaborately carved vegetables - is a Christmas tradition in this North American country.
What is Mexico?
These marine mammals can sleep with half their brain awake to watch for sharks.
What are seals?
One of the oldest winter sports, evidence of this activity dates back to prehistoric times.
What is skiing?
Observed on December 8, this Buddhist holiday - also known as Rohatsu - marks the Buddha’s enlightenment.
What is Bodhi Day?
Originally recorded in 1944, this French holiday classic is the best-selling French single of all time with over 30 million copies sold.
What is “Petit Papa Noël”?
In this Asian nation, a popular Christmas tradition involves enjoying a holiday meal from KFC.
What is Japan?
A group of these Arctic predators is called an aurora - or a celebration.
What is the polar bear?
With 405 total medals as of 2022, this country holds the record for the most Winter Olympic medals.
What is Norway?