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The Christmas season in France is a time when the country comes alive with a myriad of regional traditions, each adding its unique flavor to the festive atmosphere. France transforms into a winter wonderland during the festive season. From delectable culinary delights to heartfelt traditions, here is an overview of 5 French regional traditions or celebrations that you wouldn't want to miss during Christmas season !
In the northeastern region of Alsace, the enchanting Christmas markets are a hallmark of the holiday season. Strasbourg, often referred to as the "Capital of Christmas," transforms into a winter wonderland with its charming wooden chalets, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations.
Visitors can indulge in Alsatian specialties like bredele (traditional Christmas cookies) and mulled wine, while the scent of cinnamon and spices fills the air.
Explore Alsace during Christmas season with our special tours !
In the sunny landscapes of Provence, the Christmas season is synonymous with vibrant nativity scenes, known as "santons." These handcrafted nativity figurines, take center stage in festive displays. Clay figurines depict not only the Holy Family but also a myriad of characters representing daily life in the region. The nativity scenes are often displayed in homes and churches, creating a unique and cherished tradition that brings communities together.
“Les treize desserts” is an old Christmas tradition in Provence. Thirteen desserts are enjoyed after Christmas Eve dinner, traditionally representing Jesus and his twelve Apostles. The desserts are spread out on a table in dishes at the same time, and everyone is invited to take a little from each dish in order to guarantee good luck for the year to come !
These desserts include a variety of nuts, fruits, nougat, and sweet pastries.
Moving to the Loire region, Christmas celebrations embrace the historic charm of the castles and vineyards. The elaborate decorations at Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau for example, transport visitors to a festive fairy tale.
More traditional but unmissable, Loire's Christmas markets showcase local craftsmanship, offering an array of handcrafted gifts and delicacies.
Contact us directly if you plan to visit Loire Valley during Christmas season !
Bordeaux, renowned for its wine, adds a touch of sophistication to its Christmas celebrations. The city's UNESCO-listed architecture is adorned with festive lights, creating a picturesque backdrop for the Christmas markets. Bordeaux's culinary scene shines during the holidays, with indulgent treats such as canelés and foie gras.
Plan your next trip to magical Bordeaux city !
In Normandy, the Christmas season is marked by the warmth of family gatherings and the aroma of spiced apple cider, particularly the renowned Calvados brandy.
Another cherished tradition, The Yule log, or "bûche de Noël". Originating from a Nordic custom, on Christmas Eve, the Normans would burn a very large log as a part of traditional Christmas celebrations. This piece of wood was placed in the fireplace by the father of the family. The Yule log used to gather all the occupants of the house, all the guests of the house, relatives and servants, around the family hearth to celebrate the arrival of the winter solstice.
This large log had to last the three days of the celebration in the hearth while many peasants and religious people who could not afford to have a log for heating received one as a gift. The blessing of the log was the blessing of the fire.
This tradition is carried out in Normandy in particular. In the 1940s, with the disappearance of chimneys, the custom gradually disappeared and over time, the log became the traditional dessert to end a Christmas banquet. These “Buches de Noel” now fill the windows of pâtisseries and boulangeries all over France during holiday season !
Find out more about Normandy destination here !
From festive markets to culinary delights, from religious ceremonies to artisanal crafts, the regional celebrations showcase the depth of French heritage and the spirit of togetherness that defines this magical time of year.
Take advantage of our WINTERTREAT promo code and get 10% off during winter 2024-2025.
See you soon in France!
