Across
- 2. A creamy drink often spiked with rum or brandy.
- 9. A source of light and warmth, central to Kwanzaa and Hanukkah traditions.
- 10. Icy precipitation often associated with winter holidays.
- 12. A warm drink enjoyed in winter.
- 14. A spiky plant with red berries.
- 16. The season during which many December holidays occur.
- 18. A shining symbol often placed atop the tree.
- 20. A seven-branched candleholder used during Kwanzaa.
- 21. A sweet, spiced cookie often shaped like people or houses.
- 22. A centerpiece of Christmas decorations, adorned with lights and ornaments.
- 24. What people do during special occasions.
- 25. A fictional holiday “for the rest of us,” popularized by Seinfeld.
- 30. A man-made (often child-made) creation made with three stacked balls.
- 33. Jack ___, the mythical personification of winter.
- 35. Roasted ___ on an open fire, as the song goes.
- 36. A candelabra with nine branches used during Hanukkah.
- 37. What you might find under the tree.
- 39. A circular decoration placed on doors.
- 40. The day after Christmas, celebrated in the UK and other Commonwealth countries. Honestly weird.
Down
- 1. Santa’s whip.
- 3. Decorative strings of foliage or lights.
- 4. A weird plant hung up for kisses.
- 5. Shimmery strands used to decorate trees.
- 6. A common theme and wish during December holidays.
- 7. Santa’s magical helpers, including one with a red nose.
- 8. Jewish festival of lights lasting eight days.
- 11. Another word for Christmas or a festive carol.
- 13. A spinning top used by Jewish gamers.
- 15. An old term for Christmas, often referencing logs or traditions.
- 17. A folklore figure known as the anti-Santa.
- 18. We took a photo with him at the Reagan.
- 19. Often seen atop Christmas trees or depicted in nativity scenes.
- 23. Songs sung to celebrate the season. Also gay movie.
- 26. The real deal. A jolly old man in red who delivers presents on Christmas Eve.
- 27. Get fat.
- 28. A red and green plant popular in holiday decor.
- 29. A time for celebration and relaxation, often marked by traditions.
- 31. A decorative figure often associated with Christmas ballets.
- 32. Hung by the chimney.
- 34. A green, grouchy character who tried to steal Christmas.
- 38. Santa’s mindful, demure, diminutive helpers.