Christmas Around the World

In this country's version of "The Shepherds", a gypsey attempts to kidnap Baby Jesus

• Iran

• Brazil

• Italy

• Sweden

"Christmas Old Man" visits this country, with houses decorated with beautiful paper chains, paper lanterns, and paper flowers.

• China

• Japan

• Czechoslovakia

• India

In Czechoslovakia & Poland they cut a branch from this type of tree to see if it will bloom in time for Christmas

• Apple

• Oak

• Orange

• Cherry

Good King Wenceslas was an actual king from this country. (Not just in a song)

• England

• Czechoslovakia

• France

• Gremany

Ancestor worship is a main part of the Spring Festival, the main winter holiday of this country.

• Russia

• Spain

• China

• Japan

No Christmas trees here...the main symbol is Basil wrapped around a wooden cross

• Greece

• Russia

• Spain

• Brazil

How do you keep a Greek "Killantzaroi" (goblin/sprite) from coming into your home?

• Place Basil around the doors and windows

• Keep garlic on the kitchen counter

• Keep a fire burning in the hearth

Figures of local dignitaries and characters are placed in the nativity scene in this country

• Germany

• France

• Spain

• India

_____ trees are decorated in India, along with clay oil-burning lamps

• Peach

• Mango

• Banana

• Palm

The Three Wise Men are believed to have been from this country. Current tradition is to have a "little fast" from animal products from December 1 - Christmas Day

• Russia

• India

• Iran

• Spain