1.
In which country do children leave out shoes instead of stockings for presents?
Correct Answer
B. Netherlands
Explanation
In the Netherlands, children leave out shoes instead of stockings for presents. They typically leave them near the fireplace or in front of the door. St. Nicholas, the Dutch version of Santa Claus, fills the shoes with small presents and candy if the children have been good.
2.
Which country celebrates Christmas by roller-skating to church?
Correct Answer
D. Romania
Explanation
In Romania, many people celebrate Christmas by roller-skating to church. This tradition is particularly popular in the city of Bucharest, where the streets are closed off to cars, allowing people of all ages to skate freely to their place of worship.
3.
Which country's tradition involves hiding brooms on Christmas Eve?
Correct Answer
A. Norway
Explanation
In Norway, it is a tradition to hide brooms on Christmas Eve. This stems from an old belief that witches and evil spirits would come out on this night to steal brooms and wreak havoc. Norwegians still practice this quirky tradition to ward off any mischievous spirits.
4.
Which country's tradition includes a witch-like figure who brings gifts to children?
Correct Answer
C. Czech Republic
Explanation
In the Czech Republic, the Christmas tradition involves a witch-like figure called 'Ježibaba' who brings gifts to children. Ježibaba is believed to have roots in Slavic mythology and is depicted as an old woman with a broomstick. She visits children on Christmas Eve and brings them presents if they have behaved well.
5.
Which country celebrates Christmas on January 7th?
Correct Answer
D. Russia
Explanation
In Russia, Christmas is celebrated on January 7th. This is because the Russian Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar, which places Christmas 13 days after the Gregorian calendar used in Western countries. On this day, Russians attend church services, exchange gifts, and enjoy festive meals with their loved ones.
6.
Which country's tradition involves cleaning the house before Christmas Eve?
Correct Answer
C. Poland
Explanation
In Poland, it is customary to thoroughly clean the house before Christmas Eve. This is done to ensure that the house is ready to welcome Baby Jesus, who is believed to bring gifts on this night. People in Poland spend days cleaning, decluttering, and decorating their homes for the festive season.
7.
Which country's tradition involves eating KFC for Christmas dinner?
Correct Answer
C. Japan
Explanation
In Japan, some people have adopted the tradition of eating KFC for Christmas dinner. This unique tradition started in the 1970s, when KFC launched a successful advertising campaign promoting 'Kentucky for Christmas.' Today, it is not uncommon for Japanese families to pre-order their KFC meals weeks in advance to avoid long lines on Christmas day.
8.
Which country's tradition involves lighting a giant bonfire on Christmas Eve?
Correct Answer
B. Ireland
Explanation
In Ireland, it is a tradition to light a giant bonfire on Christmas Eve. This practice is believed to have originated from an early Christian tradition of lighting fires to commemorate the birth of Jesus. The bonfires serve as a symbol of light and warmth during the dark winter nights.
9.
Which country's tradition involves eating fried caterpillars for Christmas?
Correct Answer
A. Kenya
Explanation
In Kenya, some communities have a unique tradition of eating fried caterpillars during Christmas. These caterpillars, known as 'kumbi kumbi,' are considered a delicacy and are typically fried or roasted before being served. The tradition is rooted in local culture and is seen as a way to celebrate abundance and unity during the festive season.
10.
Which country's tradition involves breaking plates on friends' doorsteps?
Correct Answer
B. Greece
Explanation
In Greece, it is a tradition known as 'siga-siga' to break plates on friends' doorsteps on New Year's Day. This practice is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits for the coming year. The tradition has evolved over time and is now more commonly observed in certain areas like Athens.
11.
Which country's tradition involves hiding a pickle ornament in the Christmas tree?
Correct Answer
A. United States
Explanation
In the United States, a popular tradition during Christmas is hiding a pickle ornament in the Christmas tree. This tradition is known as the 'Christmas Pickle' and is believed to have German origins. The first child to find the pickle ornament on Christmas morning receives an extra present or is said to have good luck for the following year.
12.
Which country's tradition involves burning a Yule log during Christmas?
Correct Answer
B. Norway
Explanation
In Norway, it is a tradition to burn a Yule log during Christmas. This practice dates back to ancient Norse traditions and symbolizes the transition from darkness to light during the winter solstice. The Yule log is usually a large wooden log that is burned in the fireplace or outdoors as a part of the Christmas celebrations.
13.
Which country's tradition involves eating a traditional meal of 'tamales' on Christmas Eve?
Correct Answer
B. Mexico
Explanation
In Mexico, it is a tradition to eat 'tamales' on Christmas Eve. Tamales are a traditional Mexican dish made from masa dough and filled with various ingredients, such as meat, cheese, or vegetables. The preparation of tamales is often a communal activity, with family and friends coming together to make large batches of these delicious treats.
14.
Which country's tradition involves smashing pomegranates on New Year's Eve?
Correct Answer
A. Turkey
Explanation
In Turkey, it is a tradition to smash pomegranates on New Year's Eve. This tradition symbolizes good luck and fertility for the coming year. The red color of the pomegranate is associated with prosperity and abundance. Many Turkish families gather together and smash pomegranates at midnight, then share and eat the seeds as a ritual.
15.
Which country's tradition involves having a 'Zwarte Piet' accompany Santa Claus?
Correct Answer
D. Netherlands
Explanation
In the Netherlands, it is a tradition for Santa Claus to be accompanied by 'Zwarte Piet' or 'Black Pete.' Zwarte Piet is a controversial character, often portrayed with blackface, who assists Santa Claus in delivering gifts. The tradition of Zwarte Piet has faced criticism for its racial stereotyping, and there have been ongoing debates about its appropriateness.