Have you ever wondered about the various Christmas traditions that you can find elsewhere in Europe? Check out these Facts in this article, related to Christmas in France that you perhaps not have known.
Christmas traditions, activities, and events can differ greatly between different cultures, in more ways than you might think. France is no exception to this – there are lots of traditions that are specific to the French festive season.
Here are some facts about Christmas in France-
The traditional meal for Christmas eaten on Christmas eve can last up to 6 hours
Several French people would traditionally eat the feast known as ‘Le Réveillon’ post attending midnight mass at church. Even in less religious households, this meal is still enjoyed on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
There is plenty of food and talking, which can make the meal last as long as 6 hours.
Some French people enjoy 13 desserts post their main meal
One Christmas tradition particular to the region of Provence is known as ‘Les Treize’. It includes eating 13 different desserts post having eaten the main meal.
These 13 desserts are meant to represent Jesus and his 12 disciples.
December 5th is celebrated as the eve of St. Nicholas
St. Nicholas is celebrated as the protector of kids and bringer of gifts by some French families. That’s why, prior to his arrival on the 6th, children leave out their shoes by the entrance to their home, along with treats for St. Nicholas’ donkey.
The next day, they will find gifts and tasty treats in their shoes. At times, this celebration can be the main celebration of Christmas for a few French families in the north.
Saint Nicholas has an assistant who decides who has been naughty and nice
Père Fouettard is the name of Saint Nicholas’ assistant, who decides which children have been good and deserve gifts, and which children have been bad and will get nothing.
His name translates as ‘Father Spanker’ because he traditionally would punish naughty kids by spanking them.
Several families go to the circus around Christmas
A number of French families go to festive circuses during Christmas. They are particularly, loved by kids and are similar to Pantomime performances.
People exchange chocolates having messages inside
Wrapped chocolates or candied fruit are given to each other and are called ‘Les Papillotes’. Inside of them is a small note, a little bit like a fortune cookie.
These could be compared to the tradition of Christmas crackers, although they are not used in France.
Christmas markets are quite popular
Christmas markets, otherwise known as ‘Les Marchés de Nöel’, are very popular festive attractions across France, although it is not originally a French tradition.
The most popular Christmas markets seem to be in areas close to the German border, as this is where the tradition arrived in France. Strasbourg and the Alsace region are specifically, popular locations for Christmas markets.
Several French households prepare their own Christmas models
‘La Crèche’ is a clay model scene that a number of French families like to make and then put on display. It consists of tiny figurines and clay buildings.
It depicts the birth of Jesus and is quite similar to the model Nativity scenes.
Mistletoe is seen hanging from several doorways
A typical French tradition is to hang mistletoe on doorways in the house. This is a tradition that you might recognize from other cultures too.
Unlike in some traditions, mistletoe is not for kissing underneath. Rather, it is meant to bring good fortune.
Christmas trees are decorated a bit differently
Having a decorated Christmas tree in your home has long been a Christmas tradition in France. However, they look to decorate their trees a bit differently from us.
Their trees were mostly decorated using ribbon, paper flowers, and apples. Even though, in modern times, several people now opt for baubles over apples.
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