[For Seniors] Christmas-themed quiz. Liven up the fun with amusing trivia questions!

bell

In traditional Western culture, bells have long been believed to ward off evil and misfortune. For that reason, decorating a Christmas tree with bells is thought to bring happiness and peace. Even the items we casually put up carry special meanings, don’t they?

Star of Bethlehem

The star placed at the top of a Christmas tree is modeled after the Star of Bethlehem, which is said to have announced the birth of Jesus Christ and guided people to Bethlehem. Inspired by the tale that under the Star of Bethlehem they found Jesus cradled by the Virgin Mary, it has come to be widely used as a symbol of Christmas.

holly

Holly is a plant often used in Christmas wreaths, and its sharp spines are believed to ward off evil spirits and misfortune. For that reason, during the Christmas season it is traditionally displayed—such as in wreaths—as a plant that protects the home.

Eternal life and infinite love

The circular shape of a Christmas wreath, having neither beginning nor end, symbolizes eternity and infinity; in a Christian context, it is said to represent eternal life and love. It’s a fitting decoration for the holy night.

socks

There is a legend that Santa Claus puts presents in stockings. It is said to originate from the story that Saint Nicholas, the model for Santa Claus, threw gold coins to save a poor family, and they landed in stockings that had been hung by the fireplace to dry. For this reason, it is said that on Christmas Eve, Santa Claus puts gifts into the stockings that children hang up.

reindeer

The animal famous for pulling Santa Claus’s sleigh and delivering presents with him is the reindeer. In particular, the red-nosed reindeer named “Rudolph” is known from the song “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” He also appears in many Christmas carols.

Apple

In China, Christmas Eve is called “Ping’an Ye” (Peaceful Night), and there’s a custom of eating apples—“pingguo,” which sounds similar. Apples have long been popular gifts in China as symbols of peace and safety.