Christmas around the World: France

Few things are as magical as the wonders of Paris decorated for the holidays. France, like more European countries, are more subdued in their public decorations than we are in the United States. However, the sparkling lights and decorated trees transform the French capital into a winter wonderland.

France, a predominantly Catholic country, celebrates the holiday season from December 6 (the feast of St. Nicholas) to January 6 (epiphany or la fete des rois in French). Below are a few unique French holiday traditions:

– French children leave their shoes on the hearth for Pere Noel (Father Christmas) on Christmas Eve. He fills them with sweets, nuts, fruit, and small toys. Legend has it that he leaves only coal for naughty children.

- Most French household decorations include at least one creche, a small nativity scene.

- The main Christmas meal is the reveillon (the re-awakening), which is eaten just after midnight mass on Christmas Eve. The food varies by region, but always includes the area’s most sumptious fare.

- Traditional French holiday baked goods include the Buche de Noel (Christmas log), a chocolate and cream concoction rolled to look like a real log, and the Three Kings Cake, which is baked for Kings Day (January 6).

For more Christmas in July posts, see:
A New Take on a Holiday Wreath from Peggy at “Junk Creation”
Trends in Christmas Trees from Linette at “She Loves Parties”
Quilted Gift Projects for Youngsters from Mary Emma at “Quilting and Patchwork

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