What are the small explosive paper rolls, often pulled apart at the dinner table during Christmas in the UK, called?

Christmas crackers

What character did Nintendo originally design as a potential rival to Mario, appearing first in 1992? Who guards the entrance to the Gryffindor Tower? What seafood is traditionally battered, fried, and served with fries in England? What band, featuring Hayley Williams, sang "Misery Business"? What profession does Tim Allen's character Scott Calvin have in 'The Santa Clause' before becoming Santa?