When the holiday season rolls around, so too do the familiar traditions: the carols, the cookies, and for many of us, the annual viewing of a certain classic film that captures the chaotic charm of a 1940s Christmas. And if you’re a regular solver of daily crossword puzzles, you’ll know that this beloved movie often provides some of the most memorable – and sometimes most challenging – crossword clues of the year.
We’re talking, of course, about the iconic tale of Ralphie Parker and his fervent desire for a very specific Christmas gift. But beyond the Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-shot Range Model air rifle, there’s another unforgettable item that frequently lights up the grid: the “prize” that becomes the surprising centerpiece of the Parker family home. This isn’t just any old clue; it’s a piece of cinematic history, a distinctive object that elicits chuckles and head-shakes in equal measure, and a staple for any holiday-themed crossword.
Imagine yourself staring at a crossword clue like “Major Award in ‘A Christmas Story'” or “Flick’s quirky furniture prize” – it instantly transports you to that snowy, nostalgic world. This particular item, won through a newspaper contest, isn’t just a prop; it’s a character in itself. It’s the patriarch’s pride and joy, a glowing, sculpted piece of illumination that stands tall in the living room, casting a unique, somewhat risqué glow. Its arrival sparks a delightful blend of awe, embarrassment, and outright bewilderment within the household, becoming a source of both immense pride for one family member and palpable discomfort for another.
For crossword enthusiasts, this isn’t just about finding the right letters; it’s about recalling the vivid imagery, the hilarious reactions, and the sheer audacity of this peculiar household addition. It’s the kind of crossword clue that makes you smile as the letters fall into place, realizing you’ve just filled in a piece of pop culture history. It challenges your memory of specific movie details, pushing you beyond general plot points to recall the visual gags and iconic symbols that make the film so enduring.
So, the next time you’re tackling your daily crossword, especially during the festive months, and you stumble upon a clue referencing that famous, flamboyant “major award” from the Parker family’s living room, know that you’re not just solving a puzzle. You’re connecting with millions of others who instantly recognize that unforgettable, undeniably distinctive illumination. It’s a reminder that the best crossword answers are often the ones that spark a memory, a laugh, or a moment of shared cultural recognition. Keep those holiday crossword skills sharp, because this iconic prize is bound to make an appearance in a challenging crossword puzzle near you!
Available Answers:
LAMP.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Saturday’s Daily By Kyle Dolan / Ed. Patti Varol