Joyeux Noël: Christmas Traditions across France 🎄

As winter blankets the French countryside, the air is tinged with the sweet scent of spiced wine, and the streets shimmer with the warm glow of festive lights. Today I will walk you through my experiences of a magical holiday full of traditions with a distinctive French flair. Let’s have a look at some unique examples so that you can celebrate Christmas traditions across France like a French person. ✨🕯️

Le gros souper: A Culinary feast:

Le gros souper is not just a meal; it’s a colossal buffet that is set out on 24th December and often lasts until 27th December. It’s a real feast I’m looking forward to enjoying! In the Provence region this meal often ends with the tradition of « les treize desserts » .These 13 deserts symbolise Christ and his apostles. Picture a table adorned with candied fruits, nougat, and local delicacies, —it’s a journey into Provençal and Christian heritage. 🍇🍰

Le gros souper- Everything you need to know to create your own

Midnight Mass and the Silent Beauty of Notre-Dame:

Before the tragic fire in 2019, Parisiens would stand before the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris on Christmas Eve. As the clock strikes midnight, the cathedral opened its doors for an awe-inspiring display of lights, casting a glow over the Seine. Inside the historic cathedral, Midnight Mass and beautiful carols are enjoyed; making it a moment of quiet reflection amid the grandeur of French Gothic architecture. 🌌🎶

Joyeux Noël, Joyeux Déballage!: Presents by the Fire and Communal Celebrations:

The tradition of hanging stockings isn’t really seen in France. Most children leave their shoes by the fireplace or under the tree weighting to see what Father Christmas may bring them (what are you wishing for this Christmas?) . This usually consists of sweets, small gifts or sometimes even money. In regions like Alsace, communities gather for « La Ronde de Noël, » a festive procession where carolers, dressed in traditional costumes, visit homes, spreading cheer and gathering everyone for shared moments of joy. 🧦🏡

Le Père Noël’s Grotto : A Journey into Enchantment:

There are many Christmas markets across France but Colmar’s Christmas market, nestled in the heart of Alsace, really stands out. Père Noël’s enchanting grotto, adorned with twinkling lights and nestled among half-timbered houses, is a testament to the town’s commitment to preserving the magic of Christmas. Children embark on a journey into enchantment as they visit Père Noël, sharing their wishes in a setting that feels straight out of a storybook. 🏰🎅

Find out about more Christmas events in Paris

Crèches and Santons in Les Baux-de-Provence: A Nativity Set in Stone:

Venture into the rocky landscapes of Les Baux-de-Provence, where the traditional nativity scene takes on a unique form. In the heart of a limestone quarry, visitors are greeted by life-sized figurines carved into the natural rock formations. This living nativity is a testament to the creativity that flows through the region, offering a truly immersive experience that breathes life into the age-old story. 🏞️🤲

Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik: A Christmas Capital Beyond Markets:

Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik, dating back to 1570, is not just a market—it’s an institution. Beyond the stalls selling crafts and treats, Strasbourg becomes a living Christmas tale. The city’s mediaeval streets serve as a stage for street performers, living statues, and interactive displays, creating an ambiance that goes beyond commerce—it’s a collective celebration of the spirit of Christmas. 🎭🏰

Regional Gastronomic Wonders on Christmas Day: 

On Christmas Day, the festive meal varies from household to household, and regional specialties sometimes take centre stage. As a general rule, the standard many enjoy is a roast Turkey with a chestnut filling, roast potatoes and other popular side dishes such as Gratin Dauphinois. Nonetheless,  In the southwest, you may see a Christmas « cassoulet, » a hearty dish filled with slow-cooked beans, sausages, and duck or goose—a warm embrace for the chilly season. Meanwhile, in the Alsace region, you may see a « choucroute garnie » grace the table, bringing together sauerkraut, sausages, and an array of succulent meats. 🍲🍖

Find out more about the French and their Christmas food!

Lourmarin’s Epiphany Procession: A Quaint Celebration of Kings:

As the Twelve Days of Christmas culminate in Epiphany, the village of Lourmarin comes alive with a charming Epiphany procession. Imagine horse-drawn carriages winding through cobbled streets, locals adorned in traditional attire, and the aroma of Galette des Rois filling the air. This quaint celebration captures the essence of Epiphany—a joyous mingling of tradition and community. 🎉👑

To celebrate Christmas in France is to embark on a nuanced journey, where every dish, tradition, and event tells a story deeply rooted in regional history and cultural richness. From the enchanting grotto in Colmar to the living nativity in Les Baux-de-Provence, each example reveals a facet of French Christmas magic that goes beyond the common narrative. We’d love to hear about how you celebrate Christmas in the comments, let us know! Joyeux Noël! 🎅🍾🎁

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Contact us!

Email: contact@absolutely-french.eu

Tel: 01 83 73 98 49

Address: 15 rue du Colonel Moll, 75017, Paris.