Why do some Orthodox churches, in Serbia or Georgia for example, celebrate Christmas on 7 January?

They follow the Julian calendar

They mark the baptism of Christ on that day

They hold the feast after the civil New Year

They celebrate the arrival of the Magi

Christmas traditions around the world quiz

This quiz is for playing with family and friends during Advent, over hot chocolate or between courses at the festive table. It takes you around the world of festive traditions: Christmas in the southern hemisphere, Italy and its Epiphany presents, Mexico and its nine nights of processions.

The first questions can be worked out with a little logic; the last ones call for real knowledge of the history of carols and calendars. Tip: when playing in a group, read each question aloud, let everyone write down an answer, then reveal the answer; the explanation often gets people talking about their own family traditions.

Christmas traditions around the world quiz

1. In Australia, in which season does Christmas fall? *

2. Which queen popularised the Christmas tree in England in the 19th century, together with her German-born husband? *

3. In Italy, which figure brings presents to children on the night of 5 January? *

4. In Sweden, which 13 December celebration features a girl wearing a crown of candles? *

5. In the Netherlands, where is Sinterklaas said to sail in from in mid-November? *

6. In Provence, in southern France, how many desserts are traditionally served after the Christmas Eve meal? *

7. In Mexico, what are the nine evenings from 16 to 24 December, recalling Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter, called? *

8. Which gift is so traditional in Iceland on the evening of 24 December that people speak of “Jólabókaflóð”? *

9. Why do some Orthodox churches, in Serbia or Georgia for example, celebrate Christmas on 7 January? *

10. In which present-day country was the carol “Silent Night” (Stille Nacht) first sung, in 1818? *