It's Christmas Eve, and the daily Strands puzzle awaits! Unsure if today's challenge will embrace the holiday spirit? This guide offers assistance, from subtle hints to the complete solution.

This article provides spoiler-free hints, individual word spoilers (if you prefer not to use in-game hints), an explanation of the puzzle's theme and clue, and finally, the full answer if needed.

The NYT Games Strands Puzzle #296 December 24, 2024

Today's Strands puzzle presents the clue: Who on Earth...? Seven words await discovery: six themed words and one pangram.

New York Times Games Strands Clues

Need a helping hand without full spoilers? The following sections offer gentle nudges towards today's theme.

General Hint 1

Hint 1: Think about the inhabitants of our planet.

read more### General Hint 2

Hint 2: Consider common given names.

read more### General Hint 3

Hint 3: Focus on names that also represent natural elements.

read moreSpoilers for Two of the Words in Today's Strands

The sections below offer individual word spoilers and their placement within the puzzle. Only proceed if you desire this level of assistance.

Spoiler 1

Word 1: Brook

read more### Spoiler 2

Word 2: Willow

read moreThe Answer to Today's New York Times Games Strands

The complete solution to this puzzle is revealed below. This section includes all themed words, the pangram, and their locations within the grid.

The theme is NatureNames. The words are: Holly, Willow, Brook, Laurel, River, Clementine.

read moreToday's Strands Explained

Need a deeper understanding? This section breaks down the connection between the clue, theme, and words.

Today's puzzle features Nature Names—first names that also represent natural elements (e.g., River). The clue, "Who on Earth...?" directly relates to these earthly names.

read moreEnjoy the puzzle! Find Strands on the New York Times Games website, accessible on most devices.