NEW YORK (AP) — Remember what you searched for in 2024? Google does. Google released its annual “Year in Search” on Tuesday, rounding up the top trending queries entered into its namesake search engine in 2024. The results show terms that saw the highest spike in traffic compared to last year — ranging from key news events, notably global elections , to the most popular songs, athletes and unforgettable pop-culture moments that people looked up worldwide. Sports — particularly soccer and cricket — dominated Google's overall trending searches in 2024. Copa América topped those search trends globally, followed by the UEFA European Championship and ICC Men's T20 World Cup . Meanwhile, the U.S. election led news-specific searches worldwide. Queries about excessive heat and this year's Olympic Games followed. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump topped searches in Google's people category this year — followed by Catherine, Princess of Wales , U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Algerian boxer Imane Khelif , who also led athlete-specific searches. Meanwhile, the late Liam Payne , Toby Keith and O.J. Simpson led search trends among notable individuals who died in 2024. In the world of entertainment, Disney and Pixar's “Inside Out 2” was the top trending movie of the year, while Netflix's “Baby Reindeer” led TV show trends. And Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” dominated song trends. That's just the tip of the iceberg. Queries for the Olympic village's chocolate muffin , made famous by Norwegian swimmer Henrik Christiansen over the summer games, led Google's global recipe trends this year. The New York Times' “Connections” puzzle topped game searches. And in the U.S., country-specific data shows, many people asked Google about online trends like the word “demure” and “ mob wife aesthetic .” You can find more country-specific lists, and trends from years past , through Google’s “Year in Search” data published online . The California company said it collected 2024 search results from Jan. 1 through Nov. 23 of this year. Google isn't the only one to publish an annual recap or top trends as 2024 draws to a close. Spotify Wrapped , for example, as well as Collins Dictionary and Merriam-Webster’s words of the year, have offered additional reflections for 2024.Is the NORAD Santa tracker safe from a government shutdown?
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Since its initial release, "Black Myth: Wukong" has captured the hearts of players around the world with its stunning graphics, immersive storytelling, and engaging gameplay mechanics. The game's unique blend of Chinese mythology and action-packed combat has set it apart as a standout title in the gaming industry.As December arrives, a magical transformation sweeps across the world. The crisp chill in the air signals the beginning of winter, a season of frosty elegance and festive joy. Streets sparkle with decorations, homes glow with warmth, and a sense of anticipation fills the air. This time of year is not only about chilly weather but also the promise of cherished traditions, joyful gatherings, and the magic of Christmas. Christmas, as we know it, has evolved over centuries, blending religious and cultural traditions. Originating over two thousand years ago to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, Christmas started as a solemn celebration by Christians, focusing on faith. Over time, it absorbed cultural influences, such as medieval feasts, carol singing, and gift-giving customs inspired by St. Nicholas. Today, Christmas is celebrated globally, transcending religious and cultural boundaries as a season of goodwill and unity. The Charm of Winter in December Winter in December unfolds like a fairy tale, blanketing the world in a serene, snowy landscape. Snowflakes drift from the sky, transforming the earth into a peaceful white wonderland. Icicles hang from rooftops like crystal ornaments, catching the soft winter light. The world becomes quieter, as the snow muffles sounds, creating an atmosphere of calm. Walking on snow-covered paths, the satisfying crunch beneath each step adds to the enchantment. The chill in the air invigorates, while rosy cheeks and visible breaths enhance the magic of the outdoors. Indoors, the warmth of a crackling fire invites respite. The scent of hot chocolate or freshly baked cookies, mixed with the smell of pine, creates an inviting atmosphere. Nature also reveals its artistry during winter. Evergreen trees stand vibrant against the snow, their green hues providing contrast to the monochrome world. Frost forms intricate, lace-like patterns on windows, showcasing nature’s delicate designs. Although the season may be cold, its beauty creates a warmth that lingers long after it ends. Festive Decorations and Preparations As December arrives, homes, streets, and public spaces transform with festive decorations. The Christmas tree, symbolizing life and hope, is a central part of the season. Adorned with ornaments, baubles, and lights, it becomes a focal point of joy and tradition. Garlands on mantels and wreaths on doors further enhance the cosy atmosphere. The tradition of decorating extends beyond homes to shops and streets, where twinkling lights and grand Christmas trees spread cheer to all. Christmas markets bustle with activity, offering seasonal crafts, treats, and gifts, creating a sense of anticipation and joy. Creating a festive atmosphere at home doesn’t require extravagance. DIY decorations like paper snowflakes, cinnamon ornaments, and pinecone garlands bring a personal touch. A themed colour palette — red and green, gold and white, or pastels — can tie decorations together. Scented candles with aromas like cinnamon or pine add warmth, while cosy corners with blankets and twinkling lights complete the holiday look. Decorating, whether grand or simple, fills the season with meaning and excitement. It’s a way to share creativity, celebrate traditions, and make the space feel warm and welcoming. The Culinary Delights of Christmas Christmas is as much about food as it is about celebration, with festive dishes that bring people together. A classic Christmas meal often centres around a roast turkey, accompanied by stuffing, cranberry sauce, and roasted potatoes. Each dish carries significance, symbolizing abundance and balance. Christmas pudding, often flambéed for dramatic effect, is a beloved dessert that marks the end of the holiday feast. Special treats and desserts add to the festive spread. Gingerbread cookies, with their warm spices and playful shapes, have been a holiday favourite for centuries. Candy canes, with their red-and-white stripes, symbolize a shepherd’s staff, while eggnog — a creamy, spiced drink — warms the soul on cold evenings. Different cultures have their versions of eggnog, such as Puerto Rico’s coquito, made with coconut. One of the highlights of Christmas cooking is the joy of creating together as a family. Baking gingerbread houses, decorating cookies, or preparing holiday cakes provide opportunities to bond and make memories. The kitchen fills with the sweet smells of cinnamon and freshly baked goods, turning it into a place of warmth and togetherness. Whether preparing traditional or new dishes, the flavours of Christmas bring added joy to the season. Christmas Markets and Shopping Christmas markets are magical places where the season’s spirit comes alive in a swirl of colours, sounds, and smells. Wooden stalls, adorned with twinkling lights, offer a variety of handcrafted goods, from knitted scarves to carved ornaments. The scent of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and gingerbread fills the air. Carolers sing classic songs, and street performers create festive melodies that warm the heart. These markets offer a range of delights, from unique gifts to seasonal foods. Handmade crafts, like artisanal candles or knitted scarves, showcase local talent, while gourmet food stalls tempt visitors with festive treats. Christmas markets are the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind presents, filled with personal meaning. Shopping for these gifts becomes an act of love, and wrapping them with care enhances the giving experience. The true magic of gift-giving lies in the joy of seeing a loved one’s face as they unwrap a thoughtful present. Beyond the markets, Christmas shopping is also about the act of giving itself. The search for the perfect gift, whether a small keepsake or a grand gesture, becomes an expression of love and consideration. Wrapping gifts in beautiful paper and adding personal touches makes the experience even more special. The exchange of gifts, whether big or small, fills the holiday season with warmth and magic. Cultural and Religious Traditions Christmas is celebrated globally, with each country adding its unique customs and flavours to the holiday. In Mexico, Las Posadas reenacts Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter, culminating in festive celebrations with music and piñatas. In Germany, Christmas markets are a central part of the season, offering crafts, mulled wine, and a festive atmosphere. In Japan, Christmas has taken on a modern twist, with families often enjoying a festive meal of fried chicken, a custom that gained popularity in recent years. These traditions highlight the cultural diversity of Christmas, making it a global celebration. For Christians, Christmas is a deeply religious occasion, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. The Nativity story recounts how Mary and Joseph travelled to Bethlehem, where Jesus was born in a humble stable. Angels announced His birth to shepherds, and wise men brought gifts, symbolizing the recognition of His divine mission. Advent, the four-week period leading up to Christmas, is a time of reflection and preparation. Church services, including midnight Mass and carol services, play a significant role in the religious celebration. In addition to its religious aspects, Christmas is rich with cultural traditions that are universally beloved. Santa Claus, based on the figure of Saint Nicholas, symbolizes generosity and joy. Hanging stockings and eagerly awaiting them to be filled has become a cherished tradition. Exchanging Christmas cards, adorned with festive scenes or messages, provides a way to connect with loved ones and spread holiday cheer. These traditions, both sacred and secular, contribute to the multifaceted beauty of Christmas. Community and Togetherness The holiday season is a time for community and togetherness. Family dinners, filled with laughter and love, become cherished moments. Festive gatherings with friends offer opportunities to exchange gifts and create lasting memories. These occasions remind us that the greatest gifts of Christmas are the people we hold dear and the time spent with them. Acts of kindness and generosity also define the season. Many choose to donate to charities, ensuring that others can experience the joy of Christmas. Volunteering at shelters or community events brings people together to make a difference in the lives of those in need. Simple gestures, like helping a neighbour hang lights or delivering baked goods, spread warmth and cheer. Holiday events bring the community closer, turning neighbourhoods into festive wonderlands. Neighbourhood light displays transform streets into sparkling vistas, while holiday parades and festivals foster shared joy. These communal activities create a sense of unity and connection, reminding us of the power of togetherness. Festivities and Entertainment Winter festivities offer joy for all ages, from outdoor adventures to indoor entertainment. Ice skating, sledging, and building snowmen create opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. The laughter of children and adults engaged in snowball fights or crafting snowmen adds to the festive spirit. Christmas movies, music, and literature also play a major role in the season’s atmosphere. Timeless stories like A Christmas Carol remind us of the importance of generosity, while movies like Home Alone offer a mix of comedy and holiday magic. Christmas carols, sung by choirs or played during gatherings, further enhance the mood. These traditions bring people together, creating shared moments of joy. Holiday parties and events provide additional excitement. Office parties foster camaraderie, while New Year’s Eve celebrations mark the end of the season with fireworks and festivities. The laughter and joy shared during these moments highlight the season’s true magic.
MADRID (AP) — Spanish King Felipe VI used his traditional Christmas Eve speech to remember the victims of the catastrophic Valencia flash floods , and urged the country to remain calm despite public debates around hot-button issues such as immigration and housing affordability. In a pre-recorded speech that usually reviews the year's most relevant issues, Felipe said Spain “must never forget the pain and sadness" the flood have caused. The Oct. 29 floods killed more than 225 people in eastern Spain, damaging countless homes and leaving graveyards of cars piled on top of each other. In some towns, the heavy downpours that caused the floods dropped as much as a year's worth of rain in just eight hours. In early November, as Spaniards' shock at the wreckage turned into frustration, a political blame game began, directed especially at regional authorities who failed to send timely emergency alerts to cell phones on the day of the floods. The frustration of residents in hard-hit Paiporta near Valencia was on display when people tossed mud and shouted insults at the king and government officials in early November when they made their first visit to the town. “We have seen — and understood — the frustration, the pain, the impatience, the demands for greater and more effective coordination," Felipe said about how the disaster was managed, adding that he had asked that aid be sent to everyone who needed it. He also addressed the country's housing crunch and high rents, which have become a leading concern in this European Union country that is the eurozone's fourth-largest economy. Fast-rising rents are especially acute in cities like Barcelona and Madrid, where incomes have failed to keep up, especially for younger people in a country with chronically high unemployment. Felipe urged that “all the actors involved reflect” and "listen to each other” so that they facilitate bringing access to housing under “affordable conditions.” Spain's immigration debate should keep in mind the country's European partners and immigrants' countries of origin, Felipe said, warning that “the way in which we are able to address immigration ... will say a lot in the future about our principles and the quality of our democracy.” Felipe said Spain need to remain calm in the public sphere, even in the face of a “sometimes thunderous” contest in its politics.Former lawmaker Mary Murphy, longest-serving woman in Minnesota House, suffers stroke
One of the standout features of Black Myth: Wukong is its combat system, which combines fluid martial arts movements with powerful abilities and strategic decision-making. Players have noted the satisfaction of mastering different fighting styles and using them to overcome challenging enemies and bosses throughout the game.In the realm of cinema, few genres have the ability to captivate and terrify audiences quite like the suspenseful world of horror and thriller films. Among the greats in the history of horror cinema stands the iconic "28 Days Later," a film that left a lasting impression on viewers with its visceral intensity and unrelenting atmosphere. Now, fans of the genre can rejoice as the highly anticipated sequel, "28 Months Later," is set to hit screens across North America on June 20th next year.
The competition between Zheng Qinheng and Ashleigh Barty has been fierce, with both players pushing each other to their limits on the court. Their matches have been a spectacle of skill, determination, and sportsmanship, drawing fans from around the world to witness their epic showdowns.