1. What is the shape of the popular buche de Noel cake made in France at Christmas time?
French make a traditional Yule log-shaped cake called the buche de Nol, which means “Christmas Log.” The cake, among other food in great abundance is served at the grand feast of the season, which is called le rveillon. Le rveillon is a very late supper held after midnight mass on Christmas Eve.
2. What are the most popular Christmas tree decorations in China?
Christians in China celebrate by lighting their houses with beautiful paper lanterns and decorating their Christmas trees, which they call “Trees of Light,” with paper chains, paper flowers, and paper lanterns.
3. Why are candles placed in the windows of Irish homes on Christmas Eve?
Many homes in Ireland still today will show a lighted candle, or perhaps todays equivilent, and much safer, electric lights, in the window of their home on Christmas Eve.
4. According to tradition in Belgium, how does St. Nicholas travel from house to house delivering gifts to children?
He and his Zwarte Piet assistants come in November by boat, train, or on horseback to get ready for his feast day, the 6th of December.
5. On what date does the Christmas holiday season begin in Armenia?
6th of january
6. Who brings gifts for good children in Italy?
Saint Angelo
7. What are “chicken bones” in Canadian Christmas celebrations?
Chiken bones: with cinnamon.
8. What do people in Costa Rica use to decorate their homes for Christmas?
People like to decorate their houses with beautiful tropical flowers
9. In Austria, a bell is rung after Christmas Eve dinner to signal the opening of a locked door. What are children permitted to see for the first time behind the locked door?
The children are permitted to witness the Christmas tree glistening with lights and colored ornaments, gold and silver garlands, candies and cookies.
10. In addition to musical instruments, what do Greek children sometimes carry when they go caroling?
Sometimes the will also carry model boats decorated with nuts painted gold. Carrying a boat is a very old custom in the Greek Islands.
11. Why does the country of Norway give a big Christmas tree to the United Kingdom each year?
The tree is given as a present to say ‘thank you’ for the help that the people of the UK gave to Norway during World War II
12. In the Czech Republic, what do children do when they think they hear St. Nicholas coming?
They rush to the dinner table and say their prayers, hoping that they will get good presents.
13. What foods do families in Switzerland share after the traditional midnight mass?
After the service, families gather to share huge homemade doughnuts called ringli and hot chocolate.
14. What do children do with their shoes in Spain on January 5?
On the Eve of Epiphany, January 5th, children place their shoes on the doorstep, and in the secret of the night, the Three Wise Men pass leaving gifts.
15. In Hungary, Christmas is celebrated twice. What are the dates for these celebrations?
The first time is December 6th – St. Nicholas (Mikolás) Day and the second Christmas is December 25th.
1.What is the shape of the popular buche de Noel cake made in France at Christmas time?
Is a traditional Yule log-shaped cake.
2.What are the most popular Christmas tree decorations in China?
“Trees of Light,” with paper chains, paper flowers, and paper lanterns.
3.Why are candles placed in the windows of Irish homes on Christmas Eve?
To welcome the stranger meant that you were welcoming the Holy Family too and to have no light meant that you shared the guilt of the Innkeeper at Bethlehem who said, “No Room”!
4.According to tradition in Belgium, how does St. Nicholas travel from house to house delivering gifts to children?
They believe St. Nicholas rides on horseback over the rooftops, dropping his gifts down the chimneys.
5.On what date does the Christmas holiday season begin in Armenia?
The Christmas holiday season starts on New Year’s Eve (December 31st) and continues until the old Julian calendar’s New Year’s Eve on January 13th.
6.Who brings gifts for good children in Italy?
La Befana
7.What are “chicken bones” in Canadian Christmas celebrations?
Chicken Bones are sweets of pink candy that tastes like cinnamon.
8.What do people in Costa Rica use to decorate their homes for Christmas?
People like to decorate their houses with beautiful tropical flowers.
9.In Austria, a bell is rung after Christmas Eve dinner to signal the opening of a locked door. What are children permitted to see for the first time behind the locked door?
For the first time the children are permitted to witness the Christmas tree glistening with lights and colored ornaments, gold and silver garlands, candies and cookies.
10.In addition to musical instruments, what do Greek children sometimes carry when they go caroling?
Sometimes the also carry model boats decorated with nuts painted gold.
11.Why does the country of Norway give a big Christmas tree to the United Kingdom each year?
The tree is given as a present to say ‘thank you’ for the help that the people of the UK gave to Norway during World War II.
12.In the Czech Republic, what do children do when they think they hear St. Nicholas coming?
They rush to the dinner table and say their prayers, hoping that they will get good presents.
13.What foods do families in Switzerland share after the traditional midnight mass?
Families gather to share huge homemade doughnuts called ringli and hot chocolate.
14.What do children do with their shoes in Spain on Januray 5?
Children place their shoes on the doorstepbecause the Three Wise Men pass leaving gifts.
15.In Hungary, Christmas is celebrated twice. What are the dates for these celebrations?
The first time is December 6th, and the second Christmas is December 25th.
Cesc
Hunt #4
>1: There is a special Christmas dance called the Jota
>2: In a red suit originated in Scandinavia
>3: They have to be imported, because no trees grow as far north as Greenland. The tress are imported from Denmark
>4: The day after Christmas’ Sant Esteve.
>5: Is used to simulate snow on the Christmas tree.
>6: Santa gives the reindeer a rest and uses kangaroos or ‘six white boomers’
>7: The Silent Night was first sung in 1818.
>8: They sing songs and often put on a Nativity Play or other drama.
>9: The main Christmas meal, called Réveillon
>10: People spend the evening with their family and decorate the Christmas Tree
>11: The game that is played at Posada parties is Piñata.
>12: Bannock cakes made of oatmeal
>13: In the Ukraine, Father Frost visits all the children in a sleigh pulled by only three reindeer.
>14: Is the accompanied by a harp
>15: Most people in Spain go to Midnight Mass or ‘La Misa Del Gallo’
ÀLEX SOLANO BUDÉ
1. What do people in Spain do after midnight mass on Christmas Eve?
A special Christmas dance called the Jota and the words and music have been handed down for hundreds of years. They dance to the sound of guitars and castanets
2. How does Santa Claus travel from home to home in the United States?
Santa Claus, or St. Nick. in a red suit originated in Scandinavia.
3. Why do Christmas trees have to be imported into Greenland?
Christmas Trees have to be imported, because no trees grow as far north as Greenland
4. What holiday is celebrated the day after Christmas in Ireland?
The day after Christmas Day is St. Stephen’s Day.
5. Why is cotton used to decorate Christmas trees in Argentina?
Many people use cotton balls on the branches of the Christmas tree and throughout the nativity to simulate snow
6. What animals help Santa get around in Australia? (Hint: They’re not reindeer!)
Santa gives the reindeer a rest and uses kangaroos or ‘six white boomers’
7. What famous Christmas song was written in Austria?
Silent Night was first sung in 1818
8. What do children often do at Christmas Eve church services in Ghana?
Christmas Eve night is the time when the celebrations really start with Church services that have drumming and dancing. Children often put on a Nativity Play or other drama.
9. What is the tradition of Réveillon in France?
The main Christmas meal, called Réveillon.
10. What do Hungarians traditionally do on Christmas Eve?
People spend the evening with their family and decorate the Christmas Tree.
11. What game is popular at Posada parties in Mexico during the holiday season?
One game that is often played at Posada parties is Piñata. A piñata is a decorated clay or papier-mâché jar filled with sweets and hung from the ceiling or tree branch.
12. What kind of cakes are traditionally eaten at Christmas in Scotland?
Bannock cakes made of oatmeal are traditionally eaten at Christmas.
Who brings gifts to Ukranian children at Christmas, and who is his helper?
In the Ukraine, Father Frost visits all the children in a sleigh pulled by only three reindeer.
He brings along a little girl named Snowflake Girl. She wears a silver blue costume trimmed with white fur and a crown shaped like a snowflake.
13. What instrument is often used to accompany carolers in Wales?
Caroling is particularly popular in Wales where it is called eisteddfodde and is often accompanied by a harp
14. What do people do in Spain after the Christmas Eve midnight mass?
Most people in Spain go to Midnight Mass or ‘La Misa Del Gallo’
• Why are bits of straw put underneath the tablecloth at the traditional Christmas meal in Poland?
To remind people that Jesus was born in a stable or cow shed.
• Who popularized the tradition of the Christmas tree in England?
Christmas Trees were first popularised the UK by Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria.
• Why is an empty place left at the table during the Christmas Day meal in the Czech Republic?
A place is left empty at the Christmas Day meal in case the Christ Child should come to the meal.
• How is popcorn used in Christmas decorations in the United States?
Some Americans use pop-corn threaded on string to help decorate their Christmas Tree!
• What do people in Zimbabwe do after their Christmas Day church service?
Everyone has aparty in their homes and people gofrom house to house, visiting all of their famyly and friends on the way home.
• What is the name of the traditional pudding made in Scotland for Christmas?
A traditional pudding made from fruits, suet and flour is called a clootie dumpling and sometimes contains small good luck charms, such as silver coins.
• In Malta, who preaches the sermon at midnight Christmas mass?
A boy or a girl, normally aged 7 to 10 years old
• According to Brazilian tradition, where does Father Noel live?
He lives in Greenland.
• Since the first and second world wars, turkey has been the popular choice for Christmas meals in Malta. What bird was commonly used before the wars?
A rooster.
• In Finland, what are the three holy days of Christmas?
They are: Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day.
• By tradition, groups of children in Romania travel from house to house singing carols and reciting poetry during the Christmas season. What does the leader of each group carry and how is it decorated?
The leader carries a large wooden star called a steaua, which is covered with shiny paper and decorated with bells and colored ribbon.
• The dessert at a traditional Christmas feast in Denmark is a special rice pudding with something hidden in it. What is hidden and brings good luck to the one who finds it?
An Almonde. The person who finds the whole almond gets a present.
• What are children encouraged to do on Christmas Day in Zambia?
On Christmas day, children are encouraged to bring a present to church for children who are in hospital or might not get a present because they are less fortunate.
• The traditional Christmas Eve supper in Poland consists of 12 dishes. What do these 12 dishes represent?
The traditional Christmas Eve supper consists of twelve dishes representing the twelve months of the year.
• What time does the early Christmas mass typically begin in Ethiopia?
The early Ganna mass start at 4am!
bye!
alba coronado
Scavenger Hunt # 2
1- What is the shape of the popular buche de Noel cake made in France at Christmas time?
The French make a traditional Yule log-shaped cake called the buche de Nol, which means “Christmas Log.”
2- What are the most popular Christmas tree decorations in China?
Christians in China their Christmas trees, which they call “Trees of Light,” with paper chains, paper flowers, and paper lanterns.
3- Why are candles placed in the windows of Irish homes on Christmas Eve?
This stems from the custom that to show a light in the window lighted the way of a stranger out after dark. It goes back to most ancient times, when the laws of hospitality were stronger and not abused.
4- According to tradition in Belgium, how does St. Nicholas travel from house to house delivering gifts to children?
He and his assistants come in November by boat, train, or on horseback.
5- On what date does the Christmas holiday season begin in Armenia?
The Christmas holiday season starts on New Year’s Eve (December 31st) and continues until the old Julian calendar’s New Year’s Eve on January 13th.
6- Who brings gifts for good children in Italy?
La Befana who brings gifts for the good and punishment for the bad.
7- What are “chicken bones” in Canadian Christmas celebrations?
At Christmas Canadian eats sweets called Barley Candy and Chicken Bones
8- What do people in Costa Rica use to decorate their homes for Christmas?
During Christmas in Costa Rica, people like to decorate their houses with beautiful tropical flowers. It’s also decorated with flowers and sometimes fruit. Some of the scene take a long time to make and all the family is involved. As well as the traditional figures, people add other models including houses and lots of different sorts of animals.
9- In Austria, a bell is rung after Christmas Eve dinner to signal the opening of a locked door. What are children permitted to see for the first time behind the locked door?
After the meal, the ringing of a bell signals the opening of a door long locked against the anxious eyes of the little ones.
10- In addition to musical instruments, what do Greek children sometimes carry when they go caroling?
They play drums and triangles as they sing.
11- Why does the country of Norway give a big Christmas tree to the United Kingdom each year?
The tree is given as a present to say ‘thank you’ for the help that the people of the UK gave to Norway during World War II.
12- In the Czech Republic, what do children do when they think they hear St. Nicholas coming?
Children watch the sky for any sign of St. Nicholas.
Andrea Ruiz
Scavenger Hunt #2
What is the shape of the popular buche de Noel cake made in France at Christmas time?
The French make a traditional Yule log-shaped cake called the buche de Noel, which means “Christmas Log.”
What are the most popular Christmas tree decorations in China?
Chinese people decorate their Christmas trees, which they call “Trees of Light,” with paper chains, paper flowers, and paper lanterns.
Why are candles placed in the windows of Irish homes on Christmas Eve?
This stems from the custom that to show a light in the window lighted the way of a stranger out after dark. It goes back to most ancient times, when the laws of hospitality were stronger and not abused.
According to tradition in Belgium, how does St. Nicholas travel from house to house delivering gifts to children?
He and his assistants come in November by boat, train, or on horseback to get ready for his , the 6th of December.
On what date does the Christmas holiday season begin in Armenia?
The Christmas holiday season starts on New Year’s Eve (December 31st) and continues until the old Julian calendar’s New Year’s Eve on January 13th.
Who brings gifts for good children in Italy?
La Befana who brings gifts for the good and punishment for the bad.
What are “chicken bones” in Canadian Christmas celebrations?
At Christmas Canadian eats sweets called Barley Candy and Chicken Bones
What do people in Costa Rica use to decorate their homes for Christmas?
During Christmas in Costa Rica, people like to decorate their houses with beautiful tropical flowers. It’s also decorated with flowers and sometimes fruit. Some of the scene take a long time to make and all the family is involved. As well as the traditional figures, people add other models including houses and lots of different sorts of animals.
In Austria, a bell is rung after Christmas Eve dinner to signal the opening of a locked door. What are children permitted to see for the first time behind the locked door?
After the meal, the ringing of a bell signals the opening of a door long locked against the anxious eyes of the little ones
In addition to musical instruments, what do Greek children sometimes carry when they go caroling?
They play drums and triangles as they sing.
Why does the country of Norway give a big Christmas tree to the United Kingdom each year?
The tree is given as a present to say ‘thank you’ for the help that the people of the UK gave to Norway during World War II.
In the Czech Republic, what do children do when they think they hear St. Nicholas coming?
children watch the sky for any sign of St. Nicholas.
What foods do families in Switzerland share after the traditional midnight mass?
After the service, families gather to share huge homemade doughnuts called ringli and hot chocolate.
sara jordan
1. Sometimes straw is put on the floor of the room, or under the table cloth, to remind people that Jesus was born in a stable or cow shed.
2. Christmas Trees were first popularised the UK by Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria.
Carla Sala Audet
1.What do people in Spain do after midnight mass on Christmas Eve?
Dance la JOTA. They dance to the sound of guitars and castanets.
2.How does Santa Claus travel from home to home in the United States?
In a red suit origenated in Scandinavia.
3. Why do Christmas trees have to be imported into Greenland?
Because they have to be imported, because no trees grow as far north as Greenland. The tress are imported from Denmark – Iceland has had a long historical connection with Denmark.
4. What holiday is celebrated the day after Christmas in Ireland?
The day after Christma’s is Stephan’s Day.
5. Why is cotton used to decorate Christmas trees in Argentina? Because many people use cotton balls on the branches of the Christmas tree and throughout the nativity to simulate snow.
6. What animals help Santa get around in Australia? When he gets to Australia, Santa gives the reindeer a rest and uses kangaroos.
7. What famous Christmas song was written in Austria? Silent Night was first sung in 1818, in the village church of Oberndorf. There is a story told of how Christmas was almost spoiled for the villagers that year.
8. What do children often do at Christmas Eve church services in Ghana?Christmas Eve night is the time when the celebrations really start with Church services that have drumming and dancing. Children often put on a Nativity Play or other drama.
9. What is the tradition of Réveillon in France? The main Christma’s revelition
10. What do Hungarians traditionally do on Christmas Eve? People spend the evening with their family and decorate the Christmas Tree.
11. What game is popular at Posada parties in Mexico during the holiday season? The game that is playet at Posada in parties is Piñata.
12. What kind of cakes are traditionally eaten at Christmas in Scotland?
Bannock cakes are made of atmeal.
13. Who brings gifts to Ukranian children at Christmas, and who is his helper? In the Ukraine, Father Frost visits all the children in a sleigh pulled by only three reindeer.
14. What instrument is often used to accompany carolers in Wales? Is the accompanied by a harp
15. What do people do in Spain after the Christmas Eve midnight mass? Most people in Spain go to Midnight Mass or ‘La Misa Del Gallo’
Ramon
1. Sometimes straw is put on the floor of the room, or under the table cloth, to remind people that Jesus was born in a stable or cow shed.
2. Christmas Trees were first popularised the UK by Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria. Prince Albert was German, and thought that it would be good to use one of his ways of celebrating Christmas in to England.
3. A place is left empty at the Christmas Day meal in case the Christ Child should come to the meal. A traditional Christmas meal in the Czech Republic is carp.
4. Some Americans use pop-corn threaded on string to help decorate their Christmas Tree!
5. After the Church service, everyone has a party in their homes and people go from house to house, visiting all of their family and friends on the way home! Sometimes, this can take all of the rest of the day! At every house you have something to eat, exchange presents and enjoy the party!
cristina
Questions
1. What kind of trees are decorated at Christmas time in India?
Instead of having traditional Christmas Trees, a banana or mango tree is decorated. Sometimes people use mango leaves to decorate their homes.
2. Christmas trees are not commonly used in Greece. What is the main symbol of the season in most Greek homes?
In almost every house though- the main symbol of the season is a shallow
wooden bowl with a piece of wire is suspended across the rim; from that hangs a
sprig of basil wrapped around a wooden cross.
3. In Holland, what do children leave in their shoes as a gift for Sinterklaas’s horse?
They also believe that if they leave some hay and carrots in their shoes for
Sinterklaas’s horse, they will be left some sweets.
4. Latvians claim to be the first to use Christmas trees. In what year was the first documented use of a Christmas tree in Latvia?
The first documented use of a evergreen tree at Christmas and New Year
celebrations is in town square of Riga, the capital of Latvia, in the year 1510.
5. Mattak, a special delicacy, is eaten in Greenland at Christmas. What is mattak made from and what do people say it tastes like?
‘Mattak’ is whale skin with a strip of blubber inside. It is supposed to taste like
fresh coconut, but is often too tough to chew and is usually swallowed.
6. In Sweden Christmas celebrations begin on St. Lucia’s Day. What is the date of this special day?
On December 13th.
7. What is often the traditional Christmas Day meal in Japan?
Fried chicken is often eaten on Christmas day.
8. What is the traditional Christmas greeting in Pakistan?
The traditional Christmas greeting in Punjabi is ‘Bara Din Mubarrak Ho’, which means, ‘the blessing of Christmas on you’.
9. What is the date of Christmas Day in Serbia?
Christmas Day in on the 7th January!
10. A Russian tradition is to ________ on Christmas Even until the first star has appeared in the sky.
The Russian word for Christmas Eve ‘sochelnik’, comes from the word ‘sochivo’.
Aida
1. What kind of trees are decorated at Christmas time in India?
Instead of having traditional Christmas Trees, a banana or mango tree is decorated. Sometimes people use mango leaves to decorate their homes.
2. Christmas trees are not commonly used in Greece. What is the main symbol of the season in most Greek homes?
The main symbol of the season is a shallow wooden bowl with a piece of wire is suspended across the rim; from that hangs a sprig of basil wrapped around a wooden cross.
3. In Holland, what do children leave in their shoes as a gift for Sinterklaas’s horse?
They also believe that if they leave some hay and carrots in their shoes for Sinterklaas’s horse, they will be left some sweets.
4. Latvians claim to be the first to use Christmas trees. In what year was the first documented use of a Christmas tree in Latvia?
The first documented use of a evergreen tree at Christmas and New Year celebrations is in town square of Riga, the capital of Latvia, in the year 1510.
5. Mattak, a special delicacy, is eaten in Greenland at Christmas. What is mattak made from and what do people say it tastes like?
‘Mattak’ is whale skin with a strip of blubber inside. It is supposed to taste like fresh coconut, but is often too tough to chew and is usually swallowed.
6. In Sweden Christmas celebrations begin on St. Lucia’s Day. What is the date of this special day?
St. Lucia’s Day is on 13th of December.
7. What is often the traditional Christmas Day meal in Japan?
The traditional Japanese christmas food is christmas cake, but it’s not a rich fruit cake, but is usually a sponge cake decorated with strawberries and whipped cream.
8. What is the traditional Christmas greeting in Pakistan?
Before and during Advent, spiritual seminars take place to help people to prepare for Christmas or ‘Bara Din’ (which in Urdu and Punjabi means the ‘Big Day’). This expression is very popular, even among Muslims in Pakistan.
9. What is the date of Christmas Day in Serbia? (Hint: It’s not December 25!)
Christmas Day in on the 7th January.
10. A Russian tradition is to ________ on Christmas Even until the first star has appeared in the sky.
Eat ‘sochivo’
dxx
1. Sometimes straw is put on the floor of the room, or under the table cloth, to remind people that Jesus was born in a stable or cow shed.
2. Christmas Trees were first popularised the UK by Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria.
marina casas
1. What kind of trees are decorated at Christmas time in India?
Tradiconal christmas tree is a banana or mango tree.
2. Christmas trees are not commonly used in Greece. What is the main symbol of the season in most Greek homes?
Christmas in Greece celebrated with lavish decorations and lights strung across most of the streets in major cities and towns.
3. In Holland, what do children leave in their shoes as a gift for Sinterklaas’s horse?
They also believe that if they leave some hay and carrots in their shoes for Sinterklaas’s horse, they will be left some sweets.
4. Latvians claim to be the first to use Christmas trees. In what year was the first documented use of a Christmas tree in Latvia?
The first documented use of a evergreen tree at Christmas and New Year celebrations is in town square of Riga, the capital of Latvia, in the year 1510.
5. Mattak, a special delicacy, is eaten in Greenland at Christmas. What is mattak made from and what do people say it tastes like?
‘Mattak’ is whale skin with a strip of blubber inside. It is supposed to taste like fresh coconut, but is often too tough to chew and is usually swallowed.
6. In Sweden Christmas celebrations begin on St. Lucia’s Day. What is the date of this special day?
St. Lucia’s Day is on December 13th.
7. What is often the traditional Christmas Day meal in Japan?
Fried chicken is often eaten on Christmas day. The traditional Japanese christmas food is christmas cake, but it’s not a rich fruit cake, but is usually a sponge cake decorated with strawberries and whipped cream.
8. What is the traditional Christmas greeting in Pakistan?
The traditional Christmas greeting in Punjabi is ‘Bara Din Mubarrak Ho’, which means, ‘the blessing of Christmas on you’.
9. What is the date of Christmas Day in Serbia? (Hint: It’s not December 25!)
Christmas Day in on the 7th January.
10. A Russian tradition is to some people fast (don’t eat anything) on Christmas Even until the first star has appeared in the sky.
Alex Molina
1) What do people in Spain do after midnight mass on Christmas Eve?
The people dance the Jota and the words and music have been handed down for hundreds of years.
2) How does Santa Claus travel from home to home in the United States?
In a red suit origenated in Scandinavia.
3) Why do Christmas trees have to be imported into Greenland?
They have to be imported, because no trees grow as far north as Greenland. The tress are imported from Denmark.
4) What holiday is celebrated the day after Christmas in Ireland?
The day after Christmas’s is Stephan’s Day.
5) Why is cotton used to decorate Christmas trees in Argentina?
Because many people use cotton balls on the branches of the Christmas tree and throughout the nativity to simulate snow.
6) What animals help Santa get around in Australia?
When he gets to Australia, Santa gives the reindeer a rest and uses kangaroos or ‘six white boomers’ (a popular Australian Christmas song!)
7) What famous Christmas song was written in Austria?
Silent night was first sung in 1818, in the village church of Oberndorf. There is a story told of how Christmas was almost spoiled for the villagers that year.
8) What do children often do at Christmas Eve church services in Ghana?
Christmas Eve night is the time when the celebrations really start with Church services that have drumming and dancing. Children often put on a Nativity Play or other drama.
9) What is the tradition of Réveillon in France?
The main Christma’s revelition
10) What do Hungarians traditionally do on Christmas Eve?
People spend the evening with their family and decorate the Christmas Tree.
11) What game is popular at Posada parties in Mexico during the holiday season?
The game that is played at Posada patries is Piñata.
12) What kind of cakes are traditionally eaten at Christmas in Scotland?
Bannock cakes made of at meal.
13) Who brings gifts to Ukranian children at Christmas, and who is his helper?
In the Ukraine, Father Frost visits all the children in a sleigh pulled by only three reindeer.
14) What instrument is often used to accompany carolers in Wales?
Is the accompanied by a harp.
15) What do people do in Spain after the Christmas Eve midnight mass?
Most people in Spain go to Midnight Mass or “La Misa Del Gallo”
Gabriela
1. What kind of trees are decorated at Christmas time in India?
The traditional Christmas Trees is a banana or mango, sometimes people use mango for decorated their homes.
2. Christmas trees are not commonly used in Greece. What is the main symbol of the season in most Greek homes?
Christmas in Greece celebrated with lavish decorations and lights strung across most of the streets in major cities and towns.
3. In Holland, what do children leave in their shoes as a gift for Sinterklaas’s horse?
They also believe that if they leave some hay and carrots in their shoes for Sinterklaas’s horse, they will be left some sweets.
4. Latvians claim to be the first to use Christmas trees. In what year was the first documented use of a Christmas tree in Latvia?
The first documented use of a evergreen tree at Christmas and New Year celebrations is in town square of Riga, the capital of Latvia, in the year 1510.
5. Mattak, a special delicacy, is eaten in Greenland at Christmas. What is mattak made from and what do people say it tastes like?
‘Mattak’ is whale skin with a strip of blubber inside. It is supposed to taste like fresh coconut, but is often too tough to chew and is usually swallowed.
6. In Sweden Christmas celebrations begin on St. Lucia’s Day. What is the date of this special day?
St. Lucia’s day is 13th of December.
7. What is often the traditional Christmas Day meal in Japan?
Fried chicken is often eaten on Christmas day. The traditional food is christmas cake, but is usually a sponge cake decorated with atrawberries and whipped cream.
8. What is the traditional Christmas greeting in Pakistan?
The traditional Christmas greeting in Punjabi is ‘Bara Din Mubarrak Ho’, which means, ‘the blessing of Christmas on you.
9. What is the date of Christmas Day in Serbia? (Hint: It’s not December 25!)
The Christmas Day is 7th of January.
10. A Russian tradition is to some people (don’t eat anything) on Christmas Even until the first star has appeared in the sky.
Guillem
1. Sometimes straw is put on the floor of the room, or under the table cloth, to remind people that Jesus was born in a stable or cow shed.
2. Christmas Trees were first popularised the UK by Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria. Prince Albert was German, and thought that it would be good to use one of his ways of celebrating Christmas in to England.
3. A place is left empty at the Christmas Day meal in case the Christ Child should come to the meal. A traditional Christmas meal in the Czech Republic is carp.
4. Some Americans use pop-corn threaded on string to help decorate their Christmas Tree!
5. After the Church service, everyone has a party in their homes and people go from house to house, visiting all of their family and friends on the way home! Sometimes, this can take all of the rest of the day! At every house you have something to eat, exchange presents and enjoy the party!
Raquel
QUESTIONS FROM SCAVENGER HUNT 1
1. What kind of trees is decorated at Christmas time in India?
– Instead of using the typical Christmas tree, in India a banana or a mango tree does this decorative function.
2. Christmas trees are not commonly used in Greece. What is the main symbol of the season in most Greek homes?
– The main symbol is the icon of St. Nicholas, known as the patron saint of sailors. According to Greek tradition, he had been fighting the storms and waves to reack sinking ships and rescue drowning men from the sea. Today, there are lots of ships that never leave port without the icon of this saint.
3. In Holland, what do children leave in their shoes as a gift for Sinterklaas’s horse?
– They leave hay and carrots, because they believe that then, some sweets will be left for them.
4. Latvians claim to be the first to use Christmas trees. In what year was the first documented use of a Christmas tree in Latvia?
– It was in the year 1510, in the town square of Riga, the capital of Latvia.
5. Mattak, a special delicacy, is eaten in Greenland at Christmas. What is mattak made from and what do people say it tastes like?
– Mattak is an unusual food eaten there, because it’s made from whale skin with a strip of blubbler inside. People say that it tastes like fresh coconut, but it’s often too tough to chew and it’s usually swallowed.
6. In Sweden Christmas celebrations begin on St. Lucia’s Day. What is the date of this special day?
– The date is December 13th, the day of the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year.
7. What is often the traditional Christmas Day meal in Japan?
– It’s fried chicken. That’s why this time of the year is the busiest one for restaurants such as KFC. They become so busy that they let people do the order at their local fast food in advance.
8. What is the traditional Christmas greeting in Pakistan?
– The traditional Christmas greeting in Punjabi is ‘Bara Din Mubarrak Ho’, which means, ‘the blessing of Christmas on you’.
9. What is the date of Christmas Day in Serbia? (Hint: It’s not December 25!)
– It’s January 7th, because the Orthodox Church – that’s the one they follow- still uses the old “Julian” Calendar.
10. A Russian tradition is to FAST on Christmas Eve until the first star has appeared in the sky.
11. What is Santa Claus called in Madagascar?
– Santa Claus is called ‘Dadabe Noely’.
12. What is the Christmas tradition of the roraty in Poland?
– Special masses or communion services are held at dawn and dedicate to Mary for receiving the good news from the angel Gabriel.
13. In Iceland, people celebrate 13 days of Christmas beginning on DECEMBER 24 and ending on JANUARY 6.
14. What kind of fruit is often found in the stockings of children who live in the Canadian Prairies?
– Japanese oranges can be found there, because they’ve got an especial meaning to the people who live there.
CarlaXi
– What kind of trees are decorated at Christmas time in India?
In India people decorate their houses with banana or mango tree.
– Christmas trees are not commonly used in Greece. What is the main symbol of the season in most Greek homes?
In almost every house though- the main symbol of the season is a shallow wooden bowl with a piece of wire is suspended across the rim; from that hangs a sprig of basil wrapped around a wooden cross. A small amount of water is kept in the bowl to keep the basil alive and fresh.
– In Holland, what do children leave in their shoes as a gift for Sinterklaas’s horse?
On December 5th children leave clogs or shoes out to be filled with presents. They also believe that if they leave some hay and carrots in their shoes for Sinterklaas’s horse, they will be left some sweets.
– Latvians claim to be the first to use Christmas trees. In what year was the first documented use of a Christmas tree in Latvia?
In 1510.
– Mattak, a special delicacy, is eaten in Greenland at Christmas. What is mattak made from and what do people say it tastes like?
‘Mattak’ is whale skin with a strip of blubber inside.
– In Sweden Christmas celebrations begin on St. Lucia’s Day. What is the date of this special day?
December 13th.
– What is often the traditional Christmas Day meal in Japan?
Fried chicken is a traditional Chrismas Day meal in Japan.
– What is the traditional Christmas greeting in Pakistan?
The traditional Christmas greeting in Punjabi is ‘Bara Din Mubarrak Ho’, which means, ‘the blessing of Christmas on you’.
– What is the date of Christmas Day in Serbia?
On 19th Decembe.
– A Russian tradition is to ________ on Christmas Even until the first star has appeared in the sky.
Don’t eat anything.
– What is Santa Claus called in Madagascar?
In Madagascar, Santa Claus is called ‘Dadabe Noely’.
– What is the Christmas tradition of the roraty in Poland?
joan ignasi gacría rubio
1.What kind of trees are decorated at Christmas time in India?
In India, they don’t have christmas trees, they decorate a banana or mango tree.
2.Christmas trees are not commonly used in Greece. What is the main symbol of the season in most Greek homes?
3.In Holland, what do children leave in their shoes as a gift for Sinterklaas’s horse?
On December 5th children leave clogs or shoes out to be filled with presents. They also believe that if they leave some hay and carrots in their shoes for Sinterklaas’s horse, they will be left some sweets.
4. Latvians claim to be the first to use Christmas trees. In what year was the first documented use of a Christmas tree in Latvia?
In 1510.
5. Mattak, a special delicacy, is eaten in Greenland at Christmas. What is mattak made from and what do people say it tastes like?
Mattak is whale skin with a strip of blubber inside it taste like fresh coconut.
6.In Sweden Christmas celebrations begin on St. Lucia’s Day. What is the date of this special day?
It’s the December 13th.
7. What is often the traditional Christmas Day meal in Japan?
The japanes people only eat Fried chicken.
8.What is the traditional Christmas greeting in Pakistan?
The traditional Christmas greeting in Punjabi is ‘Bara Din Mubarrak Ho’, which means, ‘the blessing of Christmas on you’.
9. What is the date of Christmas Day in Serbia? (Hint: It’s not December 25!)
On 19th decenber.
10. A Russian tradition is to __ don’t eat anything __ on Christmas Even until the first star has appeared in the sky.
11. What is Santa Claus called in Madagascar?
In Madagascar, Santa Claus is called ‘Dadabe Noely’.
12. What is the Christmas tradition of the roraty in Poland?
Joan Ignasi García Rubio
sara jordan collet
1. Instead of having traditional Christmas trees, a banana or mango tree to decorate their homes.
2. Christmas in Greece celebrated with lavish decorations and lights strung across most of the streets in major cities and towns.
3. In Holland children leave clogs or shoes out to be filled with presents. They also believe that if they leave some hay and carrots in their shoes for Sinterklaas’s horse, they will be left some sweets.
4. The first documented use of an evergreen tree at Christmas and New Year celebrations is in the year 1510.
5. It’s an unusual foods eaten at Christmas time in Greenland. ‘Mattak’ is whale skin with a strip of blubber inside. It is supposed to taste like fresh coconut, but is often too tough to chew and is usually swallowed.
6. One of the biggest celebrations in Sweden is St. Lucia’s Day or St. Lucy’s Day on December 13th.
7. The often and traditional Christmas Day meal in Japan is Fried chicken is often eaten on Christmas restaurants such as KFC and people can place orders at their local fast food restaurant The traditional Japanese Christmas food is Christmas cake, but it’s not a rich fruit cake, but is usually a sponge cake decorated with strawberries and whipped cream.
8. (In Pakistan, December 25th is a public holiday, is in memory of Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan.) The traditional Christmas greeting in Punjabi is ‘Bara Din Mubarrak Ho’, which means, ‘the blessing of Christmas on you’.
9. In Serbia the date of Christmas day is on the 7th January
10. A Russian tradition is to explain the story of Babushka on Christmas Even until the first star has appeared in the sky.
11. In Madagascar Santa Claus is called ‘Dadabe Noely’.
12. There is the tradition of the ‘roraty’, special masses (or communion services) held at dawn and dedicated to Mary for receiving the good news from the angel Gabriel. (During Advent, people also prepare their houses for Christmas. There’s lots of cleaning and people wash their windows and clean their carpets very thoroughly. Everything must be clean for Christmas day).
13. In Iceland, people celebrate 13 days of Christmas beginning on December 24 and ending on January 6.
14.The kind of fruit that is often found in the stockings of children who live in the Canadian Prairies is Japanese mandarin oranges.
1. What is the shape of the popular buche de Noel cake made in France at Christmas time?
French make a traditional Yule log-shaped cake called the buche de Nol, which means “Christmas Log.” The cake, among other food in great abundance is served at the grand feast of the season, which is called le rveillon. Le rveillon is a very late supper held after midnight mass on Christmas Eve.
2. What are the most popular Christmas tree decorations in China?
Christians in China celebrate by lighting their houses with beautiful paper lanterns and decorating their Christmas trees, which they call “Trees of Light,” with paper chains, paper flowers, and paper lanterns.
3. Why are candles placed in the windows of Irish homes on Christmas Eve?
Many homes in Ireland still today will show a lighted candle, or perhaps todays equivilent, and much safer, electric lights, in the window of their home on Christmas Eve.
4. According to tradition in Belgium, how does St. Nicholas travel from house to house delivering gifts to children?
He and his Zwarte Piet assistants come in November by boat, train, or on horseback to get ready for his feast day, the 6th of December.
5. On what date does the Christmas holiday season begin in Armenia?
6th of january
6. Who brings gifts for good children in Italy?
Saint Angelo
7. What are “chicken bones” in Canadian Christmas celebrations?
Chiken bones: with cinnamon.
8. What do people in Costa Rica use to decorate their homes for Christmas?
People like to decorate their houses with beautiful tropical flowers
9. In Austria, a bell is rung after Christmas Eve dinner to signal the opening of a locked door. What are children permitted to see for the first time behind the locked door?
The children are permitted to witness the Christmas tree glistening with lights and colored ornaments, gold and silver garlands, candies and cookies.
10. In addition to musical instruments, what do Greek children sometimes carry when they go caroling?
Sometimes the will also carry model boats decorated with nuts painted gold. Carrying a boat is a very old custom in the Greek Islands.
11. Why does the country of Norway give a big Christmas tree to the United Kingdom each year?
The tree is given as a present to say ‘thank you’ for the help that the people of the UK gave to Norway during World War II
12. In the Czech Republic, what do children do when they think they hear St. Nicholas coming?
They rush to the dinner table and say their prayers, hoping that they will get good presents.
13. What foods do families in Switzerland share after the traditional midnight mass?
After the service, families gather to share huge homemade doughnuts called ringli and hot chocolate.
14. What do children do with their shoes in Spain on January 5?
On the Eve of Epiphany, January 5th, children place their shoes on the doorstep, and in the secret of the night, the Three Wise Men pass leaving gifts.
15. In Hungary, Christmas is celebrated twice. What are the dates for these celebrations?
The first time is December 6th – St. Nicholas (Mikolás) Day and the second Christmas is December 25th.
Christmas Around the World Scavenger Hunt #2
1.What is the shape of the popular buche de Noel cake made in France at Christmas time?
Is a traditional Yule log-shaped cake.
2.What are the most popular Christmas tree decorations in China?
“Trees of Light,” with paper chains, paper flowers, and paper lanterns.
3.Why are candles placed in the windows of Irish homes on Christmas Eve?
To welcome the stranger meant that you were welcoming the Holy Family too and to have no light meant that you shared the guilt of the Innkeeper at Bethlehem who said, “No Room”!
4.According to tradition in Belgium, how does St. Nicholas travel from house to house delivering gifts to children?
They believe St. Nicholas rides on horseback over the rooftops, dropping his gifts down the chimneys.
5.On what date does the Christmas holiday season begin in Armenia?
The Christmas holiday season starts on New Year’s Eve (December 31st) and continues until the old Julian calendar’s New Year’s Eve on January 13th.
6.Who brings gifts for good children in Italy?
La Befana
7.What are “chicken bones” in Canadian Christmas celebrations?
Chicken Bones are sweets of pink candy that tastes like cinnamon.
8.What do people in Costa Rica use to decorate their homes for Christmas?
People like to decorate their houses with beautiful tropical flowers.
9.In Austria, a bell is rung after Christmas Eve dinner to signal the opening of a locked door. What are children permitted to see for the first time behind the locked door?
For the first time the children are permitted to witness the Christmas tree glistening with lights and colored ornaments, gold and silver garlands, candies and cookies.
10.In addition to musical instruments, what do Greek children sometimes carry when they go caroling?
Sometimes the also carry model boats decorated with nuts painted gold.
11.Why does the country of Norway give a big Christmas tree to the United Kingdom each year?
The tree is given as a present to say ‘thank you’ for the help that the people of the UK gave to Norway during World War II.
12.In the Czech Republic, what do children do when they think they hear St. Nicholas coming?
They rush to the dinner table and say their prayers, hoping that they will get good presents.
13.What foods do families in Switzerland share after the traditional midnight mass?
Families gather to share huge homemade doughnuts called ringli and hot chocolate.
14.What do children do with their shoes in Spain on Januray 5?
Children place their shoes on the doorstepbecause the Three Wise Men pass leaving gifts.
15.In Hungary, Christmas is celebrated twice. What are the dates for these celebrations?
The first time is December 6th, and the second Christmas is December 25th.
Hunt #4
>1: There is a special Christmas dance called the Jota
>2: In a red suit originated in Scandinavia
>3: They have to be imported, because no trees grow as far north as Greenland. The tress are imported from Denmark
>4: The day after Christmas’ Sant Esteve.
>5: Is used to simulate snow on the Christmas tree.
>6: Santa gives the reindeer a rest and uses kangaroos or ‘six white boomers’
>7: The Silent Night was first sung in 1818.
>8: They sing songs and often put on a Nativity Play or other drama.
>9: The main Christmas meal, called Réveillon
>10: People spend the evening with their family and decorate the Christmas Tree
>11: The game that is played at Posada parties is Piñata.
>12: Bannock cakes made of oatmeal
>13: In the Ukraine, Father Frost visits all the children in a sleigh pulled by only three reindeer.
>14: Is the accompanied by a harp
>15: Most people in Spain go to Midnight Mass or ‘La Misa Del Gallo’
1. What do people in Spain do after midnight mass on Christmas Eve?
A special Christmas dance called the Jota and the words and music have been handed down for hundreds of years. They dance to the sound of guitars and castanets
2. How does Santa Claus travel from home to home in the United States?
Santa Claus, or St. Nick. in a red suit originated in Scandinavia.
3. Why do Christmas trees have to be imported into Greenland?
Christmas Trees have to be imported, because no trees grow as far north as Greenland
4. What holiday is celebrated the day after Christmas in Ireland?
The day after Christmas Day is St. Stephen’s Day.
5. Why is cotton used to decorate Christmas trees in Argentina?
Many people use cotton balls on the branches of the Christmas tree and throughout the nativity to simulate snow
6. What animals help Santa get around in Australia? (Hint: They’re not reindeer!)
Santa gives the reindeer a rest and uses kangaroos or ‘six white boomers’
7. What famous Christmas song was written in Austria?
Silent Night was first sung in 1818
8. What do children often do at Christmas Eve church services in Ghana?
Christmas Eve night is the time when the celebrations really start with Church services that have drumming and dancing. Children often put on a Nativity Play or other drama.
9. What is the tradition of Réveillon in France?
The main Christmas meal, called Réveillon.
10. What do Hungarians traditionally do on Christmas Eve?
People spend the evening with their family and decorate the Christmas Tree.
11. What game is popular at Posada parties in Mexico during the holiday season?
One game that is often played at Posada parties is Piñata. A piñata is a decorated clay or papier-mâché jar filled with sweets and hung from the ceiling or tree branch.
12. What kind of cakes are traditionally eaten at Christmas in Scotland?
Bannock cakes made of oatmeal are traditionally eaten at Christmas.
Who brings gifts to Ukranian children at Christmas, and who is his helper?
In the Ukraine, Father Frost visits all the children in a sleigh pulled by only three reindeer.
He brings along a little girl named Snowflake Girl. She wears a silver blue costume trimmed with white fur and a crown shaped like a snowflake.
13. What instrument is often used to accompany carolers in Wales?
Caroling is particularly popular in Wales where it is called eisteddfodde and is often accompanied by a harp
14. What do people do in Spain after the Christmas Eve midnight mass?
Most people in Spain go to Midnight Mass or ‘La Misa Del Gallo’
• Why are bits of straw put underneath the tablecloth at the traditional Christmas meal in Poland?
To remind people that Jesus was born in a stable or cow shed.
• Who popularized the tradition of the Christmas tree in England?
Christmas Trees were first popularised the UK by Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria.
• Why is an empty place left at the table during the Christmas Day meal in the Czech Republic?
A place is left empty at the Christmas Day meal in case the Christ Child should come to the meal.
• How is popcorn used in Christmas decorations in the United States?
Some Americans use pop-corn threaded on string to help decorate their Christmas Tree!
• What do people in Zimbabwe do after their Christmas Day church service?
Everyone has aparty in their homes and people gofrom house to house, visiting all of their famyly and friends on the way home.
• What is the name of the traditional pudding made in Scotland for Christmas?
A traditional pudding made from fruits, suet and flour is called a clootie dumpling and sometimes contains small good luck charms, such as silver coins.
• In Malta, who preaches the sermon at midnight Christmas mass?
A boy or a girl, normally aged 7 to 10 years old
• According to Brazilian tradition, where does Father Noel live?
He lives in Greenland.
• Since the first and second world wars, turkey has been the popular choice for Christmas meals in Malta. What bird was commonly used before the wars?
A rooster.
• In Finland, what are the three holy days of Christmas?
They are: Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day.
• By tradition, groups of children in Romania travel from house to house singing carols and reciting poetry during the Christmas season. What does the leader of each group carry and how is it decorated?
The leader carries a large wooden star called a steaua, which is covered with shiny paper and decorated with bells and colored ribbon.
• The dessert at a traditional Christmas feast in Denmark is a special rice pudding with something hidden in it. What is hidden and brings good luck to the one who finds it?
An Almonde. The person who finds the whole almond gets a present.
• What are children encouraged to do on Christmas Day in Zambia?
On Christmas day, children are encouraged to bring a present to church for children who are in hospital or might not get a present because they are less fortunate.
• The traditional Christmas Eve supper in Poland consists of 12 dishes. What do these 12 dishes represent?
The traditional Christmas Eve supper consists of twelve dishes representing the twelve months of the year.
• What time does the early Christmas mass typically begin in Ethiopia?
The early Ganna mass start at 4am!
bye!
Scavenger Hunt # 2
1- What is the shape of the popular buche de Noel cake made in France at Christmas time?
The French make a traditional Yule log-shaped cake called the buche de Nol, which means “Christmas Log.”
2- What are the most popular Christmas tree decorations in China?
Christians in China their Christmas trees, which they call “Trees of Light,” with paper chains, paper flowers, and paper lanterns.
3- Why are candles placed in the windows of Irish homes on Christmas Eve?
This stems from the custom that to show a light in the window lighted the way of a stranger out after dark. It goes back to most ancient times, when the laws of hospitality were stronger and not abused.
4- According to tradition in Belgium, how does St. Nicholas travel from house to house delivering gifts to children?
He and his assistants come in November by boat, train, or on horseback.
5- On what date does the Christmas holiday season begin in Armenia?
The Christmas holiday season starts on New Year’s Eve (December 31st) and continues until the old Julian calendar’s New Year’s Eve on January 13th.
6- Who brings gifts for good children in Italy?
La Befana who brings gifts for the good and punishment for the bad.
7- What are “chicken bones” in Canadian Christmas celebrations?
At Christmas Canadian eats sweets called Barley Candy and Chicken Bones
8- What do people in Costa Rica use to decorate their homes for Christmas?
During Christmas in Costa Rica, people like to decorate their houses with beautiful tropical flowers. It’s also decorated with flowers and sometimes fruit. Some of the scene take a long time to make and all the family is involved. As well as the traditional figures, people add other models including houses and lots of different sorts of animals.
9- In Austria, a bell is rung after Christmas Eve dinner to signal the opening of a locked door. What are children permitted to see for the first time behind the locked door?
After the meal, the ringing of a bell signals the opening of a door long locked against the anxious eyes of the little ones.
10- In addition to musical instruments, what do Greek children sometimes carry when they go caroling?
They play drums and triangles as they sing.
11- Why does the country of Norway give a big Christmas tree to the United Kingdom each year?
The tree is given as a present to say ‘thank you’ for the help that the people of the UK gave to Norway during World War II.
12- In the Czech Republic, what do children do when they think they hear St. Nicholas coming?
Children watch the sky for any sign of St. Nicholas.
Scavenger Hunt #2
What is the shape of the popular buche de Noel cake made in France at Christmas time?
The French make a traditional Yule log-shaped cake called the buche de Noel, which means “Christmas Log.”
What are the most popular Christmas tree decorations in China?
Chinese people decorate their Christmas trees, which they call “Trees of Light,” with paper chains, paper flowers, and paper lanterns.
Why are candles placed in the windows of Irish homes on Christmas Eve?
This stems from the custom that to show a light in the window lighted the way of a stranger out after dark. It goes back to most ancient times, when the laws of hospitality were stronger and not abused.
According to tradition in Belgium, how does St. Nicholas travel from house to house delivering gifts to children?
He and his assistants come in November by boat, train, or on horseback to get ready for his , the 6th of December.
On what date does the Christmas holiday season begin in Armenia?
The Christmas holiday season starts on New Year’s Eve (December 31st) and continues until the old Julian calendar’s New Year’s Eve on January 13th.
Who brings gifts for good children in Italy?
La Befana who brings gifts for the good and punishment for the bad.
What are “chicken bones” in Canadian Christmas celebrations?
At Christmas Canadian eats sweets called Barley Candy and Chicken Bones
What do people in Costa Rica use to decorate their homes for Christmas?
During Christmas in Costa Rica, people like to decorate their houses with beautiful tropical flowers. It’s also decorated with flowers and sometimes fruit. Some of the scene take a long time to make and all the family is involved. As well as the traditional figures, people add other models including houses and lots of different sorts of animals.
In Austria, a bell is rung after Christmas Eve dinner to signal the opening of a locked door. What are children permitted to see for the first time behind the locked door?
After the meal, the ringing of a bell signals the opening of a door long locked against the anxious eyes of the little ones
In addition to musical instruments, what do Greek children sometimes carry when they go caroling?
They play drums and triangles as they sing.
Why does the country of Norway give a big Christmas tree to the United Kingdom each year?
The tree is given as a present to say ‘thank you’ for the help that the people of the UK gave to Norway during World War II.
In the Czech Republic, what do children do when they think they hear St. Nicholas coming?
children watch the sky for any sign of St. Nicholas.
What foods do families in Switzerland share after the traditional midnight mass?
After the service, families gather to share huge homemade doughnuts called ringli and hot chocolate.
1. Sometimes straw is put on the floor of the room, or under the table cloth, to remind people that Jesus was born in a stable or cow shed.
2. Christmas Trees were first popularised the UK by Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria.
1.What do people in Spain do after midnight mass on Christmas Eve?
Dance la JOTA. They dance to the sound of guitars and castanets.
2.How does Santa Claus travel from home to home in the United States?
In a red suit origenated in Scandinavia.
3. Why do Christmas trees have to be imported into Greenland?
Because they have to be imported, because no trees grow as far north as Greenland. The tress are imported from Denmark – Iceland has had a long historical connection with Denmark.
4. What holiday is celebrated the day after Christmas in Ireland?
The day after Christma’s is Stephan’s Day.
5. Why is cotton used to decorate Christmas trees in Argentina? Because many people use cotton balls on the branches of the Christmas tree and throughout the nativity to simulate snow.
6. What animals help Santa get around in Australia? When he gets to Australia, Santa gives the reindeer a rest and uses kangaroos.
7. What famous Christmas song was written in Austria? Silent Night was first sung in 1818, in the village church of Oberndorf. There is a story told of how Christmas was almost spoiled for the villagers that year.
8. What do children often do at Christmas Eve church services in Ghana?Christmas Eve night is the time when the celebrations really start with Church services that have drumming and dancing. Children often put on a Nativity Play or other drama.
9. What is the tradition of Réveillon in France? The main Christma’s revelition
10. What do Hungarians traditionally do on Christmas Eve? People spend the evening with their family and decorate the Christmas Tree.
11. What game is popular at Posada parties in Mexico during the holiday season? The game that is playet at Posada in parties is Piñata.
12. What kind of cakes are traditionally eaten at Christmas in Scotland?
Bannock cakes are made of atmeal.
13. Who brings gifts to Ukranian children at Christmas, and who is his helper? In the Ukraine, Father Frost visits all the children in a sleigh pulled by only three reindeer.
14. What instrument is often used to accompany carolers in Wales? Is the accompanied by a harp
15. What do people do in Spain after the Christmas Eve midnight mass? Most people in Spain go to Midnight Mass or ‘La Misa Del Gallo’
1. Sometimes straw is put on the floor of the room, or under the table cloth, to remind people that Jesus was born in a stable or cow shed.
2. Christmas Trees were first popularised the UK by Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria. Prince Albert was German, and thought that it would be good to use one of his ways of celebrating Christmas in to England.
3. A place is left empty at the Christmas Day meal in case the Christ Child should come to the meal. A traditional Christmas meal in the Czech Republic is carp.
4. Some Americans use pop-corn threaded on string to help decorate their Christmas Tree!
5. After the Church service, everyone has a party in their homes and people go from house to house, visiting all of their family and friends on the way home! Sometimes, this can take all of the rest of the day! At every house you have something to eat, exchange presents and enjoy the party!
Questions
1. What kind of trees are decorated at Christmas time in India?
Instead of having traditional Christmas Trees, a banana or mango tree is decorated. Sometimes people use mango leaves to decorate their homes.
2. Christmas trees are not commonly used in Greece. What is the main symbol of the season in most Greek homes?
In almost every house though- the main symbol of the season is a shallow
wooden bowl with a piece of wire is suspended across the rim; from that hangs a
sprig of basil wrapped around a wooden cross.
3. In Holland, what do children leave in their shoes as a gift for Sinterklaas’s horse?
They also believe that if they leave some hay and carrots in their shoes for
Sinterklaas’s horse, they will be left some sweets.
4. Latvians claim to be the first to use Christmas trees. In what year was the first documented use of a Christmas tree in Latvia?
The first documented use of a evergreen tree at Christmas and New Year
celebrations is in town square of Riga, the capital of Latvia, in the year 1510.
5. Mattak, a special delicacy, is eaten in Greenland at Christmas. What is mattak made from and what do people say it tastes like?
‘Mattak’ is whale skin with a strip of blubber inside. It is supposed to taste like
fresh coconut, but is often too tough to chew and is usually swallowed.
6. In Sweden Christmas celebrations begin on St. Lucia’s Day. What is the date of this special day?
On December 13th.
7. What is often the traditional Christmas Day meal in Japan?
Fried chicken is often eaten on Christmas day.
8. What is the traditional Christmas greeting in Pakistan?
The traditional Christmas greeting in Punjabi is ‘Bara Din Mubarrak Ho’, which means, ‘the blessing of Christmas on you’.
9. What is the date of Christmas Day in Serbia?
Christmas Day in on the 7th January!
10. A Russian tradition is to ________ on Christmas Even until the first star has appeared in the sky.
The Russian word for Christmas Eve ‘sochelnik’, comes from the word ‘sochivo’.
1. What kind of trees are decorated at Christmas time in India?
Instead of having traditional Christmas Trees, a banana or mango tree is decorated. Sometimes people use mango leaves to decorate their homes.
2. Christmas trees are not commonly used in Greece. What is the main symbol of the season in most Greek homes?
The main symbol of the season is a shallow wooden bowl with a piece of wire is suspended across the rim; from that hangs a sprig of basil wrapped around a wooden cross.
3. In Holland, what do children leave in their shoes as a gift for Sinterklaas’s horse?
They also believe that if they leave some hay and carrots in their shoes for Sinterklaas’s horse, they will be left some sweets.
4. Latvians claim to be the first to use Christmas trees. In what year was the first documented use of a Christmas tree in Latvia?
The first documented use of a evergreen tree at Christmas and New Year celebrations is in town square of Riga, the capital of Latvia, in the year 1510.
5. Mattak, a special delicacy, is eaten in Greenland at Christmas. What is mattak made from and what do people say it tastes like?
‘Mattak’ is whale skin with a strip of blubber inside. It is supposed to taste like fresh coconut, but is often too tough to chew and is usually swallowed.
6. In Sweden Christmas celebrations begin on St. Lucia’s Day. What is the date of this special day?
St. Lucia’s Day is on 13th of December.
7. What is often the traditional Christmas Day meal in Japan?
The traditional Japanese christmas food is christmas cake, but it’s not a rich fruit cake, but is usually a sponge cake decorated with strawberries and whipped cream.
8. What is the traditional Christmas greeting in Pakistan?
Before and during Advent, spiritual seminars take place to help people to prepare for Christmas or ‘Bara Din’ (which in Urdu and Punjabi means the ‘Big Day’). This expression is very popular, even among Muslims in Pakistan.
9. What is the date of Christmas Day in Serbia? (Hint: It’s not December 25!)
Christmas Day in on the 7th January.
10. A Russian tradition is to ________ on Christmas Even until the first star has appeared in the sky.
Eat ‘sochivo’
1. Sometimes straw is put on the floor of the room, or under the table cloth, to remind people that Jesus was born in a stable or cow shed.
2. Christmas Trees were first popularised the UK by Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria.
1. What kind of trees are decorated at Christmas time in India?
Tradiconal christmas tree is a banana or mango tree.
2. Christmas trees are not commonly used in Greece. What is the main symbol of the season in most Greek homes?
Christmas in Greece celebrated with lavish decorations and lights strung across most of the streets in major cities and towns.
3. In Holland, what do children leave in their shoes as a gift for Sinterklaas’s horse?
They also believe that if they leave some hay and carrots in their shoes for Sinterklaas’s horse, they will be left some sweets.
4. Latvians claim to be the first to use Christmas trees. In what year was the first documented use of a Christmas tree in Latvia?
The first documented use of a evergreen tree at Christmas and New Year celebrations is in town square of Riga, the capital of Latvia, in the year 1510.
5. Mattak, a special delicacy, is eaten in Greenland at Christmas. What is mattak made from and what do people say it tastes like?
‘Mattak’ is whale skin with a strip of blubber inside. It is supposed to taste like fresh coconut, but is often too tough to chew and is usually swallowed.
6. In Sweden Christmas celebrations begin on St. Lucia’s Day. What is the date of this special day?
St. Lucia’s Day is on December 13th.
7. What is often the traditional Christmas Day meal in Japan?
Fried chicken is often eaten on Christmas day. The traditional Japanese christmas food is christmas cake, but it’s not a rich fruit cake, but is usually a sponge cake decorated with strawberries and whipped cream.
8. What is the traditional Christmas greeting in Pakistan?
The traditional Christmas greeting in Punjabi is ‘Bara Din Mubarrak Ho’, which means, ‘the blessing of Christmas on you’.
9. What is the date of Christmas Day in Serbia? (Hint: It’s not December 25!)
Christmas Day in on the 7th January.
10. A Russian tradition is to some people fast (don’t eat anything) on Christmas Even until the first star has appeared in the sky.
1) What do people in Spain do after midnight mass on Christmas Eve?
The people dance the Jota and the words and music have been handed down for hundreds of years.
2) How does Santa Claus travel from home to home in the United States?
In a red suit origenated in Scandinavia.
3) Why do Christmas trees have to be imported into Greenland?
They have to be imported, because no trees grow as far north as Greenland. The tress are imported from Denmark.
4) What holiday is celebrated the day after Christmas in Ireland?
The day after Christmas’s is Stephan’s Day.
5) Why is cotton used to decorate Christmas trees in Argentina?
Because many people use cotton balls on the branches of the Christmas tree and throughout the nativity to simulate snow.
6) What animals help Santa get around in Australia?
When he gets to Australia, Santa gives the reindeer a rest and uses kangaroos or ‘six white boomers’ (a popular Australian Christmas song!)
7) What famous Christmas song was written in Austria?
Silent night was first sung in 1818, in the village church of Oberndorf. There is a story told of how Christmas was almost spoiled for the villagers that year.
8) What do children often do at Christmas Eve church services in Ghana?
Christmas Eve night is the time when the celebrations really start with Church services that have drumming and dancing. Children often put on a Nativity Play or other drama.
9) What is the tradition of Réveillon in France?
The main Christma’s revelition
10) What do Hungarians traditionally do on Christmas Eve?
People spend the evening with their family and decorate the Christmas Tree.
11) What game is popular at Posada parties in Mexico during the holiday season?
The game that is played at Posada patries is Piñata.
12) What kind of cakes are traditionally eaten at Christmas in Scotland?
Bannock cakes made of at meal.
13) Who brings gifts to Ukranian children at Christmas, and who is his helper?
In the Ukraine, Father Frost visits all the children in a sleigh pulled by only three reindeer.
14) What instrument is often used to accompany carolers in Wales?
Is the accompanied by a harp.
15) What do people do in Spain after the Christmas Eve midnight mass?
Most people in Spain go to Midnight Mass or “La Misa Del Gallo”
1. What kind of trees are decorated at Christmas time in India?
The traditional Christmas Trees is a banana or mango, sometimes people use mango for decorated their homes.
2. Christmas trees are not commonly used in Greece. What is the main symbol of the season in most Greek homes?
Christmas in Greece celebrated with lavish decorations and lights strung across most of the streets in major cities and towns.
3. In Holland, what do children leave in their shoes as a gift for Sinterklaas’s horse?
They also believe that if they leave some hay and carrots in their shoes for Sinterklaas’s horse, they will be left some sweets.
4. Latvians claim to be the first to use Christmas trees. In what year was the first documented use of a Christmas tree in Latvia?
The first documented use of a evergreen tree at Christmas and New Year celebrations is in town square of Riga, the capital of Latvia, in the year 1510.
5. Mattak, a special delicacy, is eaten in Greenland at Christmas. What is mattak made from and what do people say it tastes like?
‘Mattak’ is whale skin with a strip of blubber inside. It is supposed to taste like fresh coconut, but is often too tough to chew and is usually swallowed.
6. In Sweden Christmas celebrations begin on St. Lucia’s Day. What is the date of this special day?
St. Lucia’s day is 13th of December.
7. What is often the traditional Christmas Day meal in Japan?
Fried chicken is often eaten on Christmas day. The traditional food is christmas cake, but is usually a sponge cake decorated with atrawberries and whipped cream.
8. What is the traditional Christmas greeting in Pakistan?
The traditional Christmas greeting in Punjabi is ‘Bara Din Mubarrak Ho’, which means, ‘the blessing of Christmas on you.
9. What is the date of Christmas Day in Serbia? (Hint: It’s not December 25!)
The Christmas Day is 7th of January.
10. A Russian tradition is to some people (don’t eat anything) on Christmas Even until the first star has appeared in the sky.
1. Sometimes straw is put on the floor of the room, or under the table cloth, to remind people that Jesus was born in a stable or cow shed.
2. Christmas Trees were first popularised the UK by Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria. Prince Albert was German, and thought that it would be good to use one of his ways of celebrating Christmas in to England.
3. A place is left empty at the Christmas Day meal in case the Christ Child should come to the meal. A traditional Christmas meal in the Czech Republic is carp.
4. Some Americans use pop-corn threaded on string to help decorate their Christmas Tree!
5. After the Church service, everyone has a party in their homes and people go from house to house, visiting all of their family and friends on the way home! Sometimes, this can take all of the rest of the day! At every house you have something to eat, exchange presents and enjoy the party!
QUESTIONS FROM SCAVENGER HUNT 1
1. What kind of trees is decorated at Christmas time in India?
– Instead of using the typical Christmas tree, in India a banana or a mango tree does this decorative function.
2. Christmas trees are not commonly used in Greece. What is the main symbol of the season in most Greek homes?
– The main symbol is the icon of St. Nicholas, known as the patron saint of sailors. According to Greek tradition, he had been fighting the storms and waves to reack sinking ships and rescue drowning men from the sea. Today, there are lots of ships that never leave port without the icon of this saint.
3. In Holland, what do children leave in their shoes as a gift for Sinterklaas’s horse?
– They leave hay and carrots, because they believe that then, some sweets will be left for them.
4. Latvians claim to be the first to use Christmas trees. In what year was the first documented use of a Christmas tree in Latvia?
– It was in the year 1510, in the town square of Riga, the capital of Latvia.
5. Mattak, a special delicacy, is eaten in Greenland at Christmas. What is mattak made from and what do people say it tastes like?
– Mattak is an unusual food eaten there, because it’s made from whale skin with a strip of blubbler inside. People say that it tastes like fresh coconut, but it’s often too tough to chew and it’s usually swallowed.
6. In Sweden Christmas celebrations begin on St. Lucia’s Day. What is the date of this special day?
– The date is December 13th, the day of the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year.
7. What is often the traditional Christmas Day meal in Japan?
– It’s fried chicken. That’s why this time of the year is the busiest one for restaurants such as KFC. They become so busy that they let people do the order at their local fast food in advance.
8. What is the traditional Christmas greeting in Pakistan?
– The traditional Christmas greeting in Punjabi is ‘Bara Din Mubarrak Ho’, which means, ‘the blessing of Christmas on you’.
9. What is the date of Christmas Day in Serbia? (Hint: It’s not December 25!)
– It’s January 7th, because the Orthodox Church – that’s the one they follow- still uses the old “Julian” Calendar.
10. A Russian tradition is to FAST on Christmas Eve until the first star has appeared in the sky.
11. What is Santa Claus called in Madagascar?
– Santa Claus is called ‘Dadabe Noely’.
12. What is the Christmas tradition of the roraty in Poland?
– Special masses or communion services are held at dawn and dedicate to Mary for receiving the good news from the angel Gabriel.
13. In Iceland, people celebrate 13 days of Christmas beginning on DECEMBER 24 and ending on JANUARY 6.
14. What kind of fruit is often found in the stockings of children who live in the Canadian Prairies?
– Japanese oranges can be found there, because they’ve got an especial meaning to the people who live there.
– What kind of trees are decorated at Christmas time in India?
In India people decorate their houses with banana or mango tree.
– Christmas trees are not commonly used in Greece. What is the main symbol of the season in most Greek homes?
In almost every house though- the main symbol of the season is a shallow wooden bowl with a piece of wire is suspended across the rim; from that hangs a sprig of basil wrapped around a wooden cross. A small amount of water is kept in the bowl to keep the basil alive and fresh.
– In Holland, what do children leave in their shoes as a gift for Sinterklaas’s horse?
On December 5th children leave clogs or shoes out to be filled with presents. They also believe that if they leave some hay and carrots in their shoes for Sinterklaas’s horse, they will be left some sweets.
– Latvians claim to be the first to use Christmas trees. In what year was the first documented use of a Christmas tree in Latvia?
In 1510.
– Mattak, a special delicacy, is eaten in Greenland at Christmas. What is mattak made from and what do people say it tastes like?
‘Mattak’ is whale skin with a strip of blubber inside.
– In Sweden Christmas celebrations begin on St. Lucia’s Day. What is the date of this special day?
December 13th.
– What is often the traditional Christmas Day meal in Japan?
Fried chicken is a traditional Chrismas Day meal in Japan.
– What is the traditional Christmas greeting in Pakistan?
The traditional Christmas greeting in Punjabi is ‘Bara Din Mubarrak Ho’, which means, ‘the blessing of Christmas on you’.
– What is the date of Christmas Day in Serbia?
On 19th Decembe.
– A Russian tradition is to ________ on Christmas Even until the first star has appeared in the sky.
Don’t eat anything.
– What is Santa Claus called in Madagascar?
In Madagascar, Santa Claus is called ‘Dadabe Noely’.
– What is the Christmas tradition of the roraty in Poland?
1.What kind of trees are decorated at Christmas time in India?
In India, they don’t have christmas trees, they decorate a banana or mango tree.
2.Christmas trees are not commonly used in Greece. What is the main symbol of the season in most Greek homes?
3.In Holland, what do children leave in their shoes as a gift for Sinterklaas’s horse?
On December 5th children leave clogs or shoes out to be filled with presents. They also believe that if they leave some hay and carrots in their shoes for Sinterklaas’s horse, they will be left some sweets.
4. Latvians claim to be the first to use Christmas trees. In what year was the first documented use of a Christmas tree in Latvia?
In 1510.
5. Mattak, a special delicacy, is eaten in Greenland at Christmas. What is mattak made from and what do people say it tastes like?
Mattak is whale skin with a strip of blubber inside it taste like fresh coconut.
6.In Sweden Christmas celebrations begin on St. Lucia’s Day. What is the date of this special day?
It’s the December 13th.
7. What is often the traditional Christmas Day meal in Japan?
The japanes people only eat Fried chicken.
8.What is the traditional Christmas greeting in Pakistan?
The traditional Christmas greeting in Punjabi is ‘Bara Din Mubarrak Ho’, which means, ‘the blessing of Christmas on you’.
9. What is the date of Christmas Day in Serbia? (Hint: It’s not December 25!)
On 19th decenber.
10. A Russian tradition is to __ don’t eat anything __ on Christmas Even until the first star has appeared in the sky.
11. What is Santa Claus called in Madagascar?
In Madagascar, Santa Claus is called ‘Dadabe Noely’.
12. What is the Christmas tradition of the roraty in Poland?
Joan Ignasi García Rubio
1. Instead of having traditional Christmas trees, a banana or mango tree to decorate their homes.
2. Christmas in Greece celebrated with lavish decorations and lights strung across most of the streets in major cities and towns.
3. In Holland children leave clogs or shoes out to be filled with presents. They also believe that if they leave some hay and carrots in their shoes for Sinterklaas’s horse, they will be left some sweets.
4. The first documented use of an evergreen tree at Christmas and New Year celebrations is in the year 1510.
5. It’s an unusual foods eaten at Christmas time in Greenland. ‘Mattak’ is whale skin with a strip of blubber inside. It is supposed to taste like fresh coconut, but is often too tough to chew and is usually swallowed.
6. One of the biggest celebrations in Sweden is St. Lucia’s Day or St. Lucy’s Day on December 13th.
7. The often and traditional Christmas Day meal in Japan is Fried chicken is often eaten on Christmas restaurants such as KFC and people can place orders at their local fast food restaurant The traditional Japanese Christmas food is Christmas cake, but it’s not a rich fruit cake, but is usually a sponge cake decorated with strawberries and whipped cream.
8. (In Pakistan, December 25th is a public holiday, is in memory of Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan.) The traditional Christmas greeting in Punjabi is ‘Bara Din Mubarrak Ho’, which means, ‘the blessing of Christmas on you’.
9. In Serbia the date of Christmas day is on the 7th January
10. A Russian tradition is to explain the story of Babushka on Christmas Even until the first star has appeared in the sky.
11. In Madagascar Santa Claus is called ‘Dadabe Noely’.
12. There is the tradition of the ‘roraty’, special masses (or communion services) held at dawn and dedicated to Mary for receiving the good news from the angel Gabriel. (During Advent, people also prepare their houses for Christmas. There’s lots of cleaning and people wash their windows and clean their carpets very thoroughly. Everything must be clean for Christmas day).
13. In Iceland, people celebrate 13 days of Christmas beginning on December 24 and ending on January 6.
14.The kind of fruit that is often found in the stockings of children who live in the Canadian Prairies is Japanese mandarin oranges.
Guillem
Did you work enough?
Ramon,
Did you work enough?