Question 1: We’re celebrating Hen Galan today. Where are we?
- Wales
- Northern Ireland
- England
Correct Answer: Wales
Fact: Hen Galan is the Welsh equivalent of New Year’s Day. It’s a time for giving and receiving, with children traditionally going door-to-door singing songs and offering good wishes in exchange for small gifts like coins, food, or sweets. The word ‘Calennig’ means ‘New Year’s gift’ in Welsh, and apples decorated with cloves and sprigs of holly are often part of the festivities.
Question 2: What calendar does today’s Hen Galan celebration follow?
- Gregorian
- Lunar
- Julian
Correct Answer: Julian
Fact: Hen Galan, the traditional Welsh New Year, is based on the Julian calendar, which was used in Europe before the adoption of the Gregorian calendar in the 16th century. There’s a 13-day discrepancy between the two calendars. Some Welsh communities continued to observe the Julian calendar for centuries, and this tradition persists in parts of Wales today.
Question 3: What is the national flower of Wales?
- Shamrock
- Daffodil
- Rose
Correct Answer: Daffodil
Fact: The daffodil’s association with Wales is relatively modern, gaining popularity in the 19th century. This flower is often worn on March 1, St. David’s Day, a national holiday celebrating the patron saint of Wales. Interestingly, the leek is also a traditional emblem of Wales, with roots going back to ancient times.