[For Kids] December Trivia Quiz & Fun Facts! Learn about seasonal events and traditions!

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The seven foods said to be good to eat on the winter solstice are “nankin,” “renkon,” “ginnan,” “ninjin,” “kinkan,” “kanten,” and “undon.” “Nankin” means pumpkin, and “undon” refers to udon noodles. It’s said that eating these on the winter solstice will bring good luck.

the night of December 24

Santa Claus is said to deliver presents on the night before Christmas, that is, on the evening of December 24th (Christmas Eve). Children receive their presents the next morning, on December 25th. On the night of the 24th, be sure to hang a big stocking somewhere before going to bed!

soba

In Japan, there is a custom of eating toshikoshi soba on New Year’s Eve. Because soba noodles are thin and long, they carry the meaning of wishing for lasting ties and longevity. By the way, any toppings are fine! You can add herring or shrimp to bring even more good luck.

earthenware pot

For hot pot dishes, we typically use a special heat-resistant vessel called a donabe (earthenware pot). Donabe maintain an even temperature and are well suited to bringing out the flavors of the ingredients. They also have excellent heat retention, so they stay warm even after being removed from the heat. Donabe come in many sizes, and recently there’s been an increase in models compatible with induction cooktops (IH).

kamakura (snow hut/igloo)

A kamakura is a traditional snow hut made in snowy regions to enshrine the water deity. They are especially well known in places like Yokote City in Akita Prefecture. Inside the thick snow walls, a small altar is set up to worship the water deity. People offer coins and pray for household safety, business prosperity, and a bountiful harvest.