International Christmas
South of the Equator, Christmas is often celebrated with the family here.
What is the beach.
The holiday of Christmas occurs close to the ancient celebration of this day, the shortest of the year.
What is the Winter Solstice.
According to religious tradition, the wise men arrived at the manger to honor their new king after this number of days.
What is twelve.
In most parts of Europe, this bird is the fowl of choice to offer to guests at holiday celebrations.
What is goose.
In Sweden, an effigy of this creature is erected every year and often burnt by mischievious citizens.
What is a goat.
In Japan, this American staple is consumed in vast quantities on Christmas day.
What is KFC.
This was burned in a controlled fashion for as many as twelve nights to celebrate the Yuletide.
What is a Yule Log.
It is traditional to share a kiss with someone special under this distinctive plant with frosted berries.
What is mistletoe.
This alcoholic beverage was mixed with cloves, cinnamon, and other spices to create a traditional holiday drink.
What is wine.
Somewhere in each "king cake", this is baked into the dough.
What is Baby Jesus.
This demonic counterpart to Santa Claus is said to delight in torturing naughty children in Austria.
What is Krampus.
Whereas Saturnalia was a Roman day of mischief and parties, this holiday celebrated children through family games and the giving of presents.
What is Juvenalia.
This brightly colored fabric was associated with the mysterious Laplander people who inspired the first legends of elves.
What is felt.
Many holiday cookies from Germany use this as their base.
What are Communion wafers.
The traditional life of Laplanders revolved around this animal, down to drinking a concoction of its milk and blood.
What are reindeer.
In Britain and Canada, this holiday occurs on the 26th of December and is traditionally reserved as a day of celebration for servants.
What is Boxing Day.
In the ancient pagan calendar, December 25th was the birthdate of this benevolent sun god.
What is Mithras.
For a time in English history, this ruthless leader outlawed traditional celebrations of Christmas.
What is Cromwell.
This traditional delicacy is often set on fire to be served to guests in parts of Britain.
What is Christmas pudding.
In Italy, this witch delivers presents- but only to good children- instead of Santa.
What is Belfana.
In parts of Northern Europe, young women parade around in candle-lit beauty pageants to celebrate this saint.
What is Saint Lucia.
The original St. Nicholas was a bishop in this country in Asia Minor.
What is Turkey.
This prince-consort from Germany is credited by tradition with bringing the Christmas tree to Britain and, by extension, America.
What is Prince Albert.
The original hot chocolate, composed of unsweetened cocoa, cinnamon, and chili powder originated among the inhabitants of this continent.
What is North America.
In parts of Southern Europe, this defecating figurine is an essential addition to every advent display.
What is Caganer.