Winter Celebrations Web Challenge

index | bibliography | webliography | web challenge

1. Many cultures in the northern hemisphere celebrate the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year, when sunlight hours begin again to increase. The earth is closer to the Sun in Winter than in June. So what causes the change in daylight hours and the changing seasons as well? (scroll down to "Origins of solstice celebration")
   
   
2. In ancient Rome, a festival was celebrated at this time of year in ways similar to our holidays. Homes were decorated, schools were closed, and friends and family feasted and exchanged presents. What is the name of this holiday? (3rd paragraph)
   
   
3. In Northern Europe long ago, Celts burned a log as a symbol of the returning light. This custom has come down to us as the Yule log. What does the word "yule" mean? (purple box at the bottom of the page)
   
   
4. Another ancient custom that we continue to observe at this time of year is decorating with branches of evergreens, symbols of life that flourish in the winter. One of them is mistletoe. What is a "nickname" for this plant?
   
   
5. In Judaism, the holiday at this time of year is Hanukkah, or the Festival of Lights (candles). It commemorates the burning of synagogue lamps for eight days with only one day's worth of oil. How old is this celebration?
   
   
6. From December 26 to January 1 African Americans celebrate their cultural heritage during a holiday created in California in the 1960s. What is the name of the holiday?
   
   
7. On the night of the winter solstice in ancient Egypt, the god Osiris was believed to have died and been reborn, symbolizing eternal life and light. What color was his skin? (look under "Representation")
   
   
8. Although it fell in November this calendar year, Muslims typically celebrate in December a month-long holiday with contemplation, fasting, and spending time with friends and family. The date is tied to the lunar month, or phases of the moon. What is the name of this month? (Scroll down to Islam)
   
   
9. Many Native American tribes celebrate the Winter Solstice by making prayer sticks. These are named for an ancestor or god. What happens to them on the Solstice? (2nd paragraph)
   
   
10. In the Christmas story, three Wise Men followed the Star of Bethlehem to find the baby Jesus. What is another name for these men?