Across
- 4. Monument in Orkney, Scotland, aligned with the winter solstice sunset.
- 5. Ancient civilization known for its cultural influence and festivals like Saturnalia.
- 7. Viking celebration involving the most solemn sacrifice feast during Yule.
- 8. Persian version of an annual renewal festival with themes of temporary order subversion.
- 9. An ancient era when people were first farmers, closely tied to the seasons and harvest cycles.
- 12. Irish monument predating the pyramids, illuminated by the winter solstice sunrise.
- 13. Seafaring people from Scandinavia known for their exploration and raids.
- 16. Iranian observance during the winter solstice, marked by keeping vigil, fires, and poetry reading.
- 17. Common theme in various cultures during solstice celebrations, symbolizing new beginnings.
Down
- 1. Pagan Scandinavian and Germanic celebration of the twelve-day midwinter holiday.
- 2. Greek festival similar to Saturnalia, celebrating the Golden Age ruled by Kronos.
- 3. Chinese celebration of "The Arrival of Winter," featuring a feast and winter activities.
- 6. Great Stone Age monument in England, aligned with the sunrise during the winter solstice.
- 8. Ancient Roman festival with continual partying, gift-giving, and carnival-like atmosphere.
- 10. Symbolic element during solstice celebrations, representing knowledge, truth, and the return of the sun.
- 11. Jewish festival tied to lunar and solar calendars, commemorating the Maccabees' victory.
- 14. Mesopotamian god celebrated during a 12-day festival of renewal to tame chaos.
- 15. Agricultural deity in Roman mythology, associated with the Golden Age.