Across
- 1. Gaelic festival marking the end of harvest and beginning of winter.
- 7. Christmas and the surrounding festive season, originating from ancient pagan traditions.
- 9. The eve of Epiphany, celebrated in some cultures with feasting and merrymaking.
- 10. Day after Christmas, in some countries celebrated by giving to the less fortunate.
- 12. African American holiday celebrating family, community, and culture over seven days.
- 13. Mexican tradition reenacting Mary and Joseph's search for shelter.
- 15. Celebrated in many Spanish-speaking countries, marking the arrival of the three wise men.
- 17. Hindu festival celebrated from December 21st to 25th, focusing on Lord Ganesha.
- 19. December 6th in many European countries, honoring Saint Nicholas.
- 21. The day before the first day of the year.
- 22. Iranian festival celebrating the winter solstice with poetry, fruits, and nuts.
- 23. Chinese winter solstice festival focusing on family and balance of yin and yang.
Down
- 2. "Festival of Lights", an eight-day Jewish celebration.
- 3. Celebrated in Scandinavia on December 13th, honoring Saint Lucia with processions and candles.
- 4. Dutch tradition celebrated on December 5th, involving gift-giving and poems.
- 5. Japanese tradition marking the end of the old year with family gatherings and special meals.
- 6. Period leading up to Christmas, observed by many Christians.
- 8. A vibrant Bahamian festival with parades, music, and dancing on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
- 11. "Festival of Lights" in Hindu, Sikh, and Jain traditions, usually occurring in autumn but sometimes overlapping with winter.
- 14. Ancient Roman festival celebrating Saturn, marked by feasting and role reversals.
- 16. Celebrated on January 6th, marking the visit of the Magi to the baby Jesus.
- 18. In some cultures, these celebrations start after Epiphany and lead up to Lent.
- 19. Shortest day of the year, celebrated in various cultures.
- 20. Scottish celebration marking New Year’s Eve with fireworks, and music.