History of the Holidays

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Across
  1. 1. Nicholas Feast day that inspired the modern Santa Claus
  2. 2. Norse-inspired figure connected to winter solstice traditions and later absorbed into Christmas folklore.
  3. 4. German Christmas markets traditionally held during this season
  4. 6. Filipino Christmas lantern symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem
  5. 7. Often depicted in red robes, this figure judges behavior and reflects Victorian-era values of morality and charity.
  6. 10. Italian Christmas witch who delivers gifts
  7. 14. Hindu winter festival of lights celebrated in India and worldwide
  8. 15. Ancient Roman winter festival that influenced Christmas timing
  9. 16. Persian winter holiday marking the longest night of the year
  10. 17. Japanese Christmas tradition often associated with fried chicken
  11. 18. Ethiopian Christian Christmas celebrated in January
Down
  1. 1. A Dutch holiday figure whose arrival by boat reflects the Netherlands’ maritime history.
  2. 3. Moroz A Slavic winter figure often accompanied by a granddaughter and associated with New Year celebrations.
  3. 5. Mexican Christmas tradition reenacting Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter
  4. 8. Christian season of preparation before Christmas
  5. 9. African-American holiday celebrating heritage, community, and culture
  6. 11. Eastern Orthodox celebration of Christ’s birth in January
  7. 12. Jewish winter holiday commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple
  8. 13. Goat Scandinavian Christmas straw animal symbolizing harvest