French Christmas traditions: festivities that continue into the New Year

FRANCE 24

24 December 2024 at 4:29 am·1-min read

Christmas in France would not be complete without free-flowing champagne, oysters or a bûche de Noël. And the French holiday season is longer than most – stretching into the New Year with Epiphany (January 6) and its traditional galettes des rois into February with Chandeleur (Candlemas).

The Christmas season is a time when the French set aside their treasured notion of being a staunchly secular country to revel in holiday traditions, many of them rooted in ancient Rome and some continuing into the early part of the year.

Although France shares many Christmas traditions with its European neighbours, others are quintessentially French – like oysters on ice, the bûche de Noël (Christmas log cake) and a decided emphasis on Champagne.

Christmas markets ring in the season

As in countries across Europe, Christmas markets often spring up in France starting in November, with many continuing through the first week of January. Kiosks resembling wooden Swiss chalets sell mulled wine, gingerbread (pain d’épice) and various gifts and crafts, continuing a tradition dating from the Middle Ages.

For dates and locations of Paris Christmas markets, please click here.

Advent wreaths (couronnes de l’Avent) may also make an appearance around this time, often adorned with pine cones, bows and four candles. Traditionally, one candle will be lit on each Sunday leading up to Christmas.

The menace of Père Fouettard (Whipping Santa)

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Christmas markets ring in the season

The menace of Père Fouettard (Whipping Santa)

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