food/drinks
Which Eastern European dish consists of cabbage rolls stuffed with meat and rice?
Sarma (Balkan countries) or Golubtsy (Russia & Ukraine)
What is the name of the centuries-old Polish Christmas tradition where people construct intricate miniature versions of churches and castles?
Szopka Krakowska (Kraków Nativity Scenes)
Which famous ballet, featuring the character of the Sugar Plum Fairy, was composed by Pyotr Tchaikovsky?
The Nutcracker
What is the name of the medieval castle in Romania that is often associated with Dracula?
Bran Castle
What is the name of the cold beet soup popular in Lithuania and Poland?
Šaltibarščiai (Lithuania) or Chłodnik (Poland)
Which Eastern European country is known for its elaborate painted Easter eggs called "pysanky"?
Ukraine
Which Polish composer is considered one of the greatest pianists of all time, known for his nocturnes and waltzes?
Frédéric Chopin
Which Eastern European capital is famous for its Charles Bridge and Astronomical Clock?
Prague, Czech Republic
Which Eastern European country is famous for its goulash, a thick stew made with paprika?
Hungary
What is the name of the famous Russian nesting dolls that fit inside one another?
Matryoshka dolls
Which famous Yugoslavian rock band, often called the “Beatles of the Balkans,” was known for hits like “Plavi safir” and “Bolje da nosim kratku kosu”?
Bijelo Dugme
Which country is home to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, an underground complex with chapels and sculptures made of salt?
Poland
Which strong, fruit-based alcoholic beverage is commonly made in the Balkans?
Rakija (Serbia, Bulgaria, Bosnia, etc.)
Which Eastern European country is home to the Dracula legend, inspired by the historical figure Vlad the Impaler?
Romania
Which Eastern European country is known for its traditional folk music that features the cimbalom, a large stringed instrument?
Hungary
Which river runs through multiple Eastern European capitals, including Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, and Belgrade?
The Danube River
In Czech and Slovak cultures, what is the traditional Christmas dish served instead of turkey or ham?
Fried carp with potato salad
Which Eastern European festival celebrates the end of winter with the burning of a straw effigy?
Maslenitsa (Russia and Slavic countries)
Which Bulgarian vocal technique, characterized by powerful, haunting harmonies, is recognized by UNESCO?
Bulgarian polyphonic singing
What is the name of the walled city in Croatia that served as a major filming location for Game of Thrones?
Dubrovnik