Festivus centerpiece — NYT Mini Crossword Clue (October 19, 2025)
Seinfeld fans know the answer before reading the crosses. Festivus swaps the Christmas tree for a metal POLE. Word Tips echoes that with synonyms like post and pillar. Apostrophes appear as ' and quotation marks as " so the down entry stays polished.
6 Down
Festivus centerpiece
Frank Costanza's aluminum pole is the symbol of Festivus, the holiday for the rest of us. Word Tips references stanchions and posts, which nails the entry. Small word, big laugh.
Crossing Steel Supports
- 7-Across TANGO keeps POLE upright so the down entry never wobbles.
- 8-Across SPILL keeps POLE upright so the down entry never wobbles.
- 9-Across EYE keeps POLE upright so the down entry never wobbles.
Festivus Solver Tips
Meaning Cue
Word Tips points to a long slender support. The only object tied to Festivus is the pole, so the match is instant.
Alternate Clue
Expect phrases like "Holiday decor with no tinsel" or "Festivus tradition." They all circle back to POLE.
Synonym Guard
Post or rod might tempt you, but only POLE fits the four letter slot and nails the pop culture reference.
Solve Smart
Pencil in POLE once you see the clue. The P anchors two across entries so the bottom corner stays sturdy.