Around the World Winter Trivia!

Front

In the Disney movie Frozen (2013), what is the name of the iceman’s reindeer?

Back

Sven

Answer explanation

FUN FACT! In the making of Sven's character, the animation team brought a real-life reindeer into the studio in order to study its behavior and incorporate the observed elements in Sven's portrayal. Nonetheless, because of the reindeer's lack of motion, Sven's depiction was eventually developed based on the mannerisms of a dog.

Front

This rare type of snow gets its unique name from its red color and fruity smell.

Back

Watermelon Snow

Answer explanation

Watermelon snow is found worldwide in mountains and polar regions. Its color comes from freshwater green algae Chlamydomonas nivalis which produces a red pigment to protect themselves from the Sun’s intense rays in the summer.

Front

Yaldā Night is a Persian festival celebrating the winter solstice. Which of the following is NOT a part of traditional Yaldā Night celebrations?
- Reading Poems
- Eating Pomegranates
- Drinking Tea and Sharbat

Back

Going to Bed Early

Answer explanation

The longest and darkest night of the year is a time when friends and family gather together to eat, drink and read poetry (especially Hafez) and the Shahnameh until well after midnight. Fruits and nuts are eaten and pomegranates and watermelons are particularly significant.

Front

On which other planet in the Solar System have scientists observed snow falling? Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Venus

Back

Mars

Answer explanation

Fall and winter temperatures bring changes to Mars as the carbon dioxide atmosphere turns to dry ice frost that clings to the surface.

Front

The Night of the Radishes is a three-day festival starting on December 23rd. In what country is this event celebrated?

Back

Mexico

Answer explanation

The Night of the Radishes (La Noche de Rábanos) is an annual event held on December 23 in Oaxaca, Mexico, dedicated to the carving of oversized radishes to create scenes that compete for prizes in various categories. The event has its origins in the colonial period when radishes were introduced by the Spanish.

Front

For Italian-American families, a popular Christmas Eve tradition is preparing and enjoying a multi-course meal known as the "Feast of the Seven _________"

Back

Fishes

Answer explanation

The number seven symbolizes perfection and completeness, and the meal typically includes a variety of fish and shellfish.

Front

Traditionally, what is hidden inside a Christmas pudding?

Back

A silver coin

Answer explanation

Traditionally a silver coin (six pence) was hidden inside the Christmas Pudding. The silver coin brought good fortune to whomever was lucky enough to find it when the pudding was cut.

Front

Which Chinese Festival is celebrated in January or February, depending on the lunar calendar?

Back

Chinese New Year

Answer explanation

Chinese New Year, also called Lunar New Year, is an annual 15-day festival in China and Chinese communities around the world that begins with the new moon that occurs sometime between January 21 and February 20 according to Western calendars. Festivities last until the following full moon.

Front

The shortest day of the year happens every winter. What is this day also known as?

Back

The Winter Solstice

Answer explanation

The winter solstice, the longest night of the year, falls on December 21 or 22 in the Northern Hemisphere and June 20 or 21 in the Southern. Around the world, old solstice traditions have influenced holidays we celebrate now, such as Hanukkah and Christmas.

Front

Which US city was the first to host the Winter Olympics TWICE?

Back

Lake Placid, New York

Answer explanation

Two cities in the United States have hosted the Olympic Games twice: Lake Placid and Los Angeles. Lake Placid hosted the Winter Olympics in 1932 and 1980, while Los Angeles hosted the Summer Olympics in 1932 and 1984.