Winter Holiday Trivia

Front

What country does Kwanzaa come from?

Back

The United States

Answer explanation

Kwanzaa is a cultural holiday that was created in the United States in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga to celebrate African heritage and values. It is not originally from Nigeria, Ghana, or South Africa.

Front

Which of the following are NOT one of Kwanzaa's seven principles? Faith, Unity, Collective work and responsibility

Back

Humility

Answer explanation

Kwanzaa's seven principles include Unity, Collective work and responsibility, and others, but not Humility. Therefore, Humility is the correct answer as it is NOT one of the principles.

Front

Which language did Dr. Karenga use when creating Kwanzaa?

Back

Swahili

Answer explanation

Dr. Maulana Karenga created Kwanzaa in 1966, using Swahili to reflect African heritage and culture. Each of the seven principles of Kwanzaa is named in Swahili, making it the correct choice.

Front

What does Hanukkah celebrate?

Back

The reclamation of the temple in Jerusalem from the ancient Greeks

Answer explanation

Hanukkah celebrates the reclamation of the temple in Jerusalem from the ancient Greeks, specifically the Maccabean Revolt, which restored Jewish worship and traditions after a period of oppression.

Front

What is a dreidel?

Back

A spinning top

Answer explanation

A dreidel is a spinning top used in a traditional game during Hanukkah. It has four sides, each marked with a Hebrew letter, and is not a chocolate coin, fried potato pancake, or candelabra.

Front

What do the candles of the menorah represent?

Back

Eight days that the temple lamp stayed miraculously lit

Answer explanation

The candles of the menorah represent the eight days that the temple lamp stayed miraculously lit during the rededication of the Second Temple, symbolizing hope and divine intervention.

Front

Which ancient holiday inspired today's Christmas trees, holly, and mistletoe?

Back

Yule

Answer explanation

Yule, a winter solstice festival, is the ancient holiday that inspired modern Christmas traditions like trees, holly, and mistletoe, symbolizing rebirth and the return of light.

Front

Which monarch is credited with making the first gingerbread man?

Back

Queen Elizabeth I

Answer explanation

Queen Elizabeth I is credited with making the first gingerbread man in the 16th century, using the treat to impress guests. This tradition has since evolved into the popular gingerbread cookies we know today.

Front

Which character punishes naughty children on Christmas in France?

Back

Père Fouettard

Answer explanation

In France, Père Fouettard is known for punishing naughty children during Christmas, contrasting with the more benevolent figures like Santa Claus. The Krampus is associated with other cultures, while Astérix and Rudolph are fictional characters.

Front

What is the Gälve Goat?

Back

A giant goat sculpture in Sweden

Answer explanation

The Gälve Goat is a giant goat sculpture located in Gälve, Sweden, traditionally made of straw. It is a popular symbol of Christmas in Sweden, attracting many visitors each year.