Quiz: Unwrap the Secrets to These Holiday Traditions

Passover. Traditionally, the Jewish holiday Passover is in March or April. Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwaanza are celebrated in December.

All of the Above. Christmas has many origins around the globe, from early Winter Solstice celebrations by the Europeans and Scandinavians, to the Christian holiday commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ.

A Holiday created for African-Americans. Kwanzaa was created in 1966 by Ron Karenga. His hope was to create a holiday for African-Americans, so they could celebrate themselves apart from the other holidays like Christmas and Hanukkah. The word Kwanzaa is derived from a Swahili phrase, “matunda ya kwanza,” or first fruits. The holiday lasts for one week from December 26 to January 1 in the US.

Eight. Traditionally, Hanukkah, or the Festival of Lights is celebrated for eight days in late November and early December according to the Hebrew calendar. The holiday celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. Many commemorate the holiday by lighting a candle each night — a menorah holds nine candles, one of which lights the other eight.

Yes, the history of St. Nicholas can be traced back to a monk named St. Nicholas hundreds of years ago. The Legend of Santa Clause is said to have evolved from this monk’s generosity.

True. The seven principles are: unity, determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith.

False. Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Pesach, Sukkot or Shavuot are more significant holidays.

False. According to legend, St. Nicholas, who was a monk from Myra, near present-day Turkey, climbed down the chimney of a poor family with three daughters who didn’t have enough money for a dowry to get married. Once inside the home, he left three bags of gold coins in their stockings that were hung to dry. He hid the gold because he was worried their father wouldn’t accept charity. Nowadays, the tradition includes gifts of fruit, toys, candy or other items. In the US, according to tradition, if a child is bad, supposedly he or she should get coal in his or her stocking.