Daily Crossword Hints & Answers: Dec. 23, 2024

Solve today's New York Times Games Strands puzzle! This word-search challenge presents a unique twist: you must deduce the theme from a single clue before uncovering the words. Even experienced players might find this one tricky. This guide provides hints, spoilers, and the complete solution for Strands puzzle #295 (December 23, 2024).

The clue for today's puzzle is "Pass the Eggnog." Five words are hidden within the grid: a pangram and four thematically linked words.

Need a Hint?

Here are some clues to help you along without revealing the words themselves:

Hint 1: Think holiday treats.

Hint 2: Flavors you might find in festive coffee drinks.

Hint 3: Seasonal additions that enhance the taste of holiday sweets.

Spoilers (Partial Solutions):

Still stuck? Here are two words and their locations in the puzzle grid. Click to reveal!

Word 1: Peppermint

Word 2: Cranberry

Complete Solution:

Ready for the full answer? Click below to reveal the solution, including a completed puzzle screenshot.

The theme is Holiday Flavors. The words are Cranberry, Gingerbread, Peppermint, and Cocoa.

Solution Explanation:

The clue "Pass the Eggnog" perfectly encapsulates the theme. Eggnog is a classic holiday beverage, and all the themed words represent common flavors associated with holiday treats and drinks.

Ready to test your skills? Play Strands on the New York Times Games website!