Ancient & Religious Traditions
This Christian tradition is often observed by reading daily scripture and opening panels on a calendar.
What is Advent?
This nut is hidden in a dessert in Denmark, and the person who finds it is given a small gift.
What is an almond?
The origins can be traced back to a 4th century Greek Bishop who was known for his secret gift-giving and compassion.
Who is Saint Nicholas?
This movie encouraged people to 'Let it Go'
What is: Frozen?
This country has a tradition with fireworks and lanterns to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. They also believe that it is taboo to sweep on the first day of the new year or even break things. As this can bring bad fortune.
What is China?
This festival of lights commemorates the re-dedication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem.
What is Hannukah?
This fruit is used to symbolize if you will have good health and luck or bad health and bad luck going into the new year. Traditionally, the Czech Republic cuts this open on Christmas day.
What is an apple?
A monstrous figure with horns and a long tongue, who punishes misbehaving children during the Christmas season.
Who is Krampus?
3 trouble making children helped with kidnapping Santa Claus.
What is: Nightmare Before Christmas
This country smashes old dishes against their friends and family's homes. The louder the crash, the better the fortune will be for the new year.
What is Denmark?
This December holiday is observed to celebrate African heritage and culture.
What is Kwanzaa?
These fruits are traditionally given during the Lunar New Year for wealth and good luck.
What are citrus fruits? (oranges, tangerines, pomelos)
An Iceland giantess who lives in the mountains with three husbands, 72 children, and the Yule Cat.
Who is Grýla?
This movie was the first feature-length Motion Capture Film.
What is: Polar Express?
This country eats 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight for good luck and good fortune into the new year.
What is Spain/Columbia?
Burning a yule log, gift-giving and societal role-reversals are part of this winter event.
What is Winter Solstice?
Egyptians made this sweet as an offering to their deities during religious ceremonies.
What is fruitcake?
A festival held in honor of the god Saturn and included feasting and role reversal.
What is Roman Saturnalia?
This winter movie introduces a down on his luck character who gets help from the town's local basketball coach.
What is: Eight Crazy Nights?
This country has a ritual of offering gifts to Yemenja, goddess of the sea. They provide flowers and candles on small boats that float into the ocean for protection in the coming year.
What is Brazil?
Kissing under the mistletoe originates from this Norse myth.
What is the Death of Baldur?
A traditional Christmas cake, often served as a dessert, especially in France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Vietnam, and Quebec, Canada.
What is Bûche de Noël? (Yule Log)
A spirit of snow and winter, sometimes portrayed as a beautiful but cruel woman.
What is Yuki-onna?
This winter classic took 18 months to create.
What is: Rudolph the Red nose Reindeer?
This country celebrates the new year by smashing pomegranates into the ground. The wider the seeds spread, the better your year will be.
What is Turkey/Armenia?