New York Times Hints and Answers: December 25

Today's Strands puzzle, themed "A Visit From Santa," challenges players to uncover nine words hidden within a letter grid. This article provides hints, partial solutions, and the complete answer, catering to various levels of player experience.

The NYT Games Strands Puzzle #297 (December 25, 2024)

The puzzle's clue is A Visit From Santa. Nine words are to be found: a pangram and eight themed words.

New York Times Games Strands Clues

The following sections offer progressively revealing hints, each expandable for a more detailed clue.

General Hint 1

Hint 1: What might Santa bring?

General Hint 2

Hint 2: Small gifts.

General Hint 3

Hint 3: Small gifts to fill your sock-like decorations.

Spoilers for Two Words

These sections reveal two words and their locations within the grid.

Spoiler 1

Word 1: Candy

Spoiler 2

Word 2: Toys

Complete Solution

This section unveils all themed words and their positions in the grid.

The category is Stocking. The words are Toys, Plushie, Orange, Socks, Scarf, Coal, Candy, and Pens.

Puzzle Explanation

This section explains the connection between the clue and the theme.

"A Visit from Santa" implies numerous gifts, many suitable for a Stocking. All themed words represent typical stocking stuffers.

Play Strands on the New York Times Games website, accessible on most devices with a browser.