Christmas Is All Around You

Christmas and New Year always hold a special place among the annual traditional holidays. Perhaps these two occasions are uniquely tied to humanity’s hopes and dreams as the world pauses for a few festive hours at the threshold of a new calendar year. Let the world, with all its tumultuous events, wait a little – whether we find ourselves in the calm and safety of Europe, in the stormy United States on the eve of a new president’s inauguration, or in Ukraine, bravely fighting against Russian occupiers – we will certainly celebrate Christmas. So, let’s dive into our festive guide and Let It Snow!

Before delving into tips, playlists, winter travel routes, and gift ideas, it’s worth reflecting on the year 2024. Despite the likelihood of an equally turbulent 2025, this year, humanity has managed to endure and withstand numerous challenges, from abnormal heatwaves to the potential uprising of artificial intelligence and the very real threats posed by zombified Russians under the command of nuclear dictator Putin. Let’s turn to Google for a glimpse into the year.

Google Search Trends 2024: Global Highlights

Much can be written about 2024 – what intrigued, entertained, frightened, and concerned humanity. However, Google’s annual rankings offer a concise summary. The company has revealed the most popular global search queries of 2024. Unsurprisingly, against the backdrop of widespread interest in elections worldwide, “US elections” topped the list, with Donald Trump (named Time magazine’s “Person of the Year” for the second time) and Kamala Harris among the top 10 most-searched individuals.

In pop culture, the most searched items included Kelsey Mann’s animated film Inside Out 2 and Kendrick Lamar’s track Not Like Us. In sports, the Copa América and UEFA Euro 2024 dominated searches, with Algerian boxer Iman Khelif, who found herself at the centre of a gender controversy, becoming the most-searched athlete. On the culinary front, the recipe for Olympic chocolate cupcakes led the gastronomy-related queries.

Actor and stand-up comedian Katt Williams ranked as the most popular actor of the year, while among musicians, the infamous P Diddy – once a powerful producer, now a criminal defendant – made headlines. Another name shaking up social media and search engines was Luigi Mangione, who murdered billionaire and UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Amid Americans’ national outrage at corporate greed and the cynicism of health insurance companies, Mangione transformed from an ordinary killer into a Robin Hood-like figure, uniting Republicans and Democrats who now jointly demand both his release and health insurance reform.

Google Search Trends 2024: Ukraine’s Perspective

Photo: Electricity outage schedule in Ukraine

In Ukraine, which has been enduring Russian aggression for three years and fighting a bloody war for its land and the right to exist, the top search query of the year was “electricity outage schedule.” Due to constant Russian bombings of energy infrastructure, Ukraine faces significant power outages.

The second most popular search was “Euro 2024,” followed by “General Syrskyi.” Other trending queries included “2024 Olympic Games,” “Easter 2024,” and “Sudzha” – the first major Russian city captured by Ukrainian forces during the Kursk Offensive.

Regarding films, Ukrainians mostly searched for the Oscar-winning documentary 20 Days in Mariupol, with a Pixar blockbuster taking second place. In terms of purchases, Ukrainians were particularly interested in where to buy EcoFlow charging stations, inverters, and solar panels.

We hope that in 2025, the top Google searches will be “Putin’s trial” and “the collapse of Russia.” Achieving this will require not only the courage and resilience of Ukraine’s defenders but also the political will of global leaders and collective efforts from the civilised world. Let’s make a wish!

Christmas Playlist: Timeless Classics or... Timeless Classics

Source: Freepik

A curious paradox: the longer humanity celebrates Christmas, the more new songs dedicated to the holiday emerge. Yet, year after year, the same timeless winter hits echo from every boombox and speaker as they did one, two, or ten years ago. Of course, the festive season is unimaginable without Christmas classics: Mariah Carey's perennial All I Want For Christmas Is You (1994), Last Christmas (1984) by the British duo Wham!, or Andy Williams' It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year from 1963. It’s hard to be original here, so The Gaze offers its editorial selection.

Christmas Is All Around

The first track is the humorous cover Christmas Is All Around, performed by the ageing, cynical rocker Billy Mack (Bill Nighy) in Richard Curtis’s film Love Actually. In the movie, Billy makes a comeback with a remake of the romantic classic Love Is All Around, replacing the word "love" with "Christmas." Billy openly and cheekily calls his new hit rubbish and boldly threatens to perform it naked if it somehow tops the Christmas charts. Of course, it’s Christmas, so he wins, and instead of attending Elton John’s party, he visits the one person he genuinely cares about – his old, overweight concert manager. With an unconventional proposition of "getting drunk and watching porn," Billy’s holiday plans offer a unique, albeit irreverent, take on festive cheer!

Shchedryk / Carol of the Bells

Every group has its favourite Christmas playlist, but no one can dispute that the ultimate global Christmas track is Shchedryk by the brilliant Ukrainian composer Mykola Leontovych, which inspired the universally beloved carol Carol of the Bells. Leontovych worked on Shchedryk throughout his life, completing the first version in 1902 and the fifth in 1919. The carol was first performed by the choir of Kyiv University in 1916, but its fame came from Alexander Koshetz’s choir, which toured the world and presented it at Carnegie Hall in 1922.

The melody captivated American audiences so much that in 1936, Peter Wilhousky, an American of Ukrainian descent, wrote English lyrics, cementing its place in global musical culture as Carol of the Bells. You can hear this carol everywhere, from The Simpsons and The Muppet Show to films like Home Alone and Die Hard 2.

As for the origins of Shchedryk's melody, there are no definitive answers. However, musicologists and Ukrainian folklore researchers suggest that the folk source of the piece belongs to some of the oldest examples of Ukrainian folklore. They believe that musical forms resembling Shchedryk’s structure could have existed 12,000 years ago in the Mesolithic era—although, of course, not the specific Shchedryk, just a similar musical form.

Christmas Viewing: A Film, a Series, a Cartoon

Beyond the quest for gifts, what could be more enjoyable than selecting a film lineup for cinema outings or cosy home viewings during Christmas and New Year? Of course, timeless Christmas classics like Home Alone, Love Actually, Harry Potter, or Die Hard remain unparalleled. However, if you're looking to diversify your repertoire, here are a few fresh releases.

Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy

In early 2025, everyone’s favourite romantic heroine from the noughties returns to the screen – the carefree, impulsive, and refreshingly candid Bridget Jones, played once again by Renée Zellweger. Now 51, Bridget is a mother of two and a widow; her beloved Mark Darcy (Colin Firth) tragically died while negotiating the release of humanitarian workers in Sudan. Bridget is active on social media and explores dating websites. Two love interests enter her life: the polite schoolteacher Mr Wallaker and the cheeky, dashing young man Rockster. Thankfully, an old acquaintance, Daniel Cleaver, portrayed by Hugh Grant, returns to play mischief-maker – despite having seemingly perished in the previous instalment. As Grant aptly remarked, "There’s absolutely no practical reason to bring Cleaver back – other than the fact that everyone wants it."

Black Doves, Netflix

This is perhaps the most romantic spy thriller of recent times – a captivating series that masterfully balances genres. While dramatic events abound, the spirit of Christmas miracles hovers even over cynical spies, London criminals, and hired assassins. Be prepared: the touching relationships between the characters will surely draw tears, while the numerous action scenes and sharp humour will keep boredom at bay.

The plot centres on Helen Webb, a loving mother and wife of a politician who leads a double life as a spy. For years, she has worked for the secretive organisation Black Doves, which operates for the highest bidder. Helen embarks on a passionate affair that risks exposing her secret, but her lover is suddenly killed by an unknown sniper. This is not the only murder or challenge she faces – a Chinese diplomat is assassinated in central London, pushing the world to the brink of chaos once again. Meanwhile, Helen’s former partner, the professional yet romantically forlorn hitman Sam, arrives in London to assist her. All this unfolds against the backdrop of Christmas…

Flow 

If you’re going to tell a story about a global flood, it should be done with humour, poignancy, and heart – just as Latvian animators Gints Zilbalodis and Matīss Kaža have achieved. This animated film, which took four and a half years to create, features no dialogue, yet none is needed, as the main characters are animals whose lives are brought together by fate and a natural disaster aboard a small boat.

The story of Flow follows a black cat forced to leave home during a devastating flood caused by a giant wave. Onboard the boat, an eclectic crew forms: a capybara, a lemur, an injured secretary bird, and a Labrador retriever. Together, this tiny Noah’s Ark (sans Noah), accompanied by an ocean whale swimming alongside, navigates the semi-submerged world, explores deserted human cities, and even attempts to rescue other animals.

This heartwarming animated feature has rightfully become a national hit in Latvia, earned a nomination for the 97th Academy Awards, and was screened in the Un Certain Regard section at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival.

What to Serve for the 2025 New Year's Table

Source: Freepik

The upcoming 2025 New Year, according to the Eastern calendar, falls under the sign of the Green Wood Snake. Cunning, enigmatic, yet elegant and wise, the Snake appreciates sophistication and excellence. To win the favour of this symbolic patroness, the New Year's menu should be nothing short of exceptional.

Key Menu Features:

• Focus on Vegetables and Greens: The more greenery and vegetables on the table, the better. Consider salads like Greek, Niçoise, or Caesar, or try a warm eggplant salad with tomatoes and peppers.

• Light Appetisers: Serve canapés with diverse toppings, vegetable bruschettas, cheese platters, or vegetable rolls.

• Meat Dishes: As the Snake is a carnivore, include poultry (chicken, turkey) or rabbit—these are sure to delight the Green Snake.

• Delicate Desserts: Opt for fruit salads, jelly desserts, or light pastries with meringue frosting.

Festive Cocktail Highlight: Gingerbread Martini

This winter's cocktail sensation is the Gingerbread Martini, a true festive treat with a delightful hint of Bailey's.

Ingredients:

• Ginger syrup (made with cinnamon and cloves)

• Crushed gingerbread cookies

• Ice

• Vanilla ice cream

• Vodka

• Bailey's Irish Cream

• Kahlúa

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Glass Rim: Pour some ginger syrup onto a flat plate and crushed gingerbread cookies onto another. Dip the rim of a martini glass first into the syrup, then into the cookie crumbs.

2. Mix the Cocktail: In a shaker, combine ice, ice cream, vodka, Bailey's, Kahlúa, and 15 ml of ginger syrup. Shake vigorously.

3. Assemble and Decorate: Pour the mixture into the prepared glass. Top with whipped cream, sprinkle with cinnamon, and garnish with a whole gingerbread cookie.

This combination of a thoughtfully curated menu and a signature cocktail is bound to make your New Year celebration both memorable and prosperous.

Christmas Routes

If staying at home for the winter holidays isn’t your style, and you prefer to chase the Christmas spirit abroad, we’ve got some suggestions for you.

Prague, Czech Republic: The Best Christmas Market in a Winter Wonderland

Source: Pragueexperience.com

It’s no wonder that Prague is often the filming location for famous fantasy films and series; wintertime in this city is pure magic. The Christmas markets in Prague are the epitome of the city’s enchanting winter scenery. Starting in late November, the Czech capital transforms into a fairy tale setting. In 2023, Prague was even crowned the most beautiful Christmas city, cementing its reputation as a premier winter destination.

From 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, visitors to Old Town Square can indulge in various foods and drinks, shop for souvenirs and handmade crafts by local artisans, enjoy Christmas carols, or simply wander through the narrow streets of this historic city. Concerts, theatre performances, and traditional folk presentations will take place on stages throughout the market. Additionally, visitors can admire a nativity scene and participate in workshops on traditional crafts.

Prague also ranks among the top 10 most affordable Christmas markets in Europe, with weekend trips for two costing between €150-€200. If you’re tempted to plan an entire Christmas tour, consider adding these destinations to your itinerary:

• Poznań, Poland

• Sarandë, Albania

• Craiova, Romania

• Budapest, Hungary

• Montbéliard, France

• Riga, Latvia

• Trier, Germany

• Prague, Czech Republic

• Madeira, Portugal

• Govone and Asti, Italy

Verholy Relax Park: The Cosy Forest Spa Hotel

Source: Verholy.com

Despite the ongoing war in Ukraine, the country’s hospitality industry continues to amaze its guests. For those who consider themselves a bit adventurous and want to support Ukraine’s economy during these challenging times, a visit to Verholy Relax Park in Sosnova village, near the historic city of Poltava, is highly recommended.

Nestled in the forest, Verholy Relax Park offers an authentic spa retreat. Its serene landscapes promise a peaceful getaway, far from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The experience is defined by privacy, organic aesthetics, and nature-inspired luxury. Guests often long to return to its unique, soothing atmosphere.

The hotel boasts a refined restaurant, swimming pool, saunas, a stable, and cosy modern cottages seamlessly integrated into a pine forest. It’s the perfect spot for a festive New Year’s retreat.

Bukovel: For Those Called by the Mountains

Source: Bukovel.com

If tranquil and meditative relaxation isn’t your style, head to Bukovel, Ukraine’s most renowned ski resort. With dozens of slopes catering to both beginners and experts, Bukovel features over 60 trails of varying difficulty. The resort also offers numerous spa centres, ice rinks, and plenty of entertainment options.

Accommodation in Bukovel ranges from budget-friendly lodgings to luxurious villas and globally recognised hotel chains, making it a versatile destination for winter travellers.

Whether you seek a bustling Christmas market, a peaceful forest retreat, or an adrenaline-filled ski trip, these destinations are sure to make your holiday season unforgettable.

Gifts: Timeless Christmas Trends

What are the winter holidays without gifts? The perennial question, “What should I get you for Christmas?” and the inevitable reply, “Nothing,” have puzzled humanity since this festive season began. According to analysts at Picodi, who studied search statistics on holiday presents, people typically look for a diverse yet predictable array of options. These include chocolates and sweets, toys, perfumes and cosmetics, board games, champagne or spirits, tech gadgets (ranging from milk frothers to smartwatches and gaming consoles), annual streaming subscriptions, or the classic Christmas jumper adorned with reindeer and bright, cosy socks.

Here’s a glimpse of the latest global ranking of Christmas gifts:

1. Gift set

2. Cosmetic set

3. Gift card

4. Scarf

5. Thermo mug

6. Humidifier

7. Scented candle

8. Eau de toilette

9. Coffee machine

10. Lego

Source: Bevza.com

From the editorial team at The Gaze, we suggest an original festive gift: a set of Christmas tree ornaments inspired by Mykola Leontovych’s carol Shchedryk, crafted by the Ukrainian brand BEVZA. These ornaments are made of glass and hand-painted by Ukrainian artisans. They come in sets of two, four, or six pieces.

This truly special gift, from the heart of a resilient and indomitable Ukraine, embodies the spirit of hope and renewal captured in the melody of Shchedryk. It will undoubtedly add a unique charm to any Christmas tree around the world.