Christmas in France, much as in the UK, is a very festive affair. The French think of Christmas as the most important festival in the year and never forget its Christian beginnings. Although Christmas is celebrated in similar ways to the UK, the emphasis on the religious side is perhaps more pronounced in France.

Being in France over the Christmas period is a complete joy. The whole family mix and join in with the traditions of which there are many and there is something of an old fashioned and less commercialised feel to it generally.

If this is your first French Christmas, you are in for a treat. Embrace the new celebrations and you will fit right in. Here we look at some of the traditions in France but of course each village will have its own special celebrations.

Children can get behind this tradition…

Saint Nicholas

This is one tradition not followed in the UK. On the night of December 5, children leave their shoes at the fireplace ready for St. Nicholas to fill with presents while they sleep. This long held tradition is very important in many larger towns such as Strasbourg who will put on magic and puppet shows for the children. Churches also hold St. Nicholas carol services.

Many larger towns will put on magic and puppet shows

Somehow it seems that Saint Nicholas morphed into Santa Claus along the way, although many children love to find little treats in their shoes on December 6 as well as further gifts from Père Noël on Christmas Day!

Advent and wreaths

Advent calendars are very popular in France, normally with a little chocolate or sweet hidden behind each window. Equally important are advent wreaths which consist of four candles perched inside a festive wreath made of fir cones and pine. The candles represent each of the four Sundays leading up to Christmas, each one lit from the first Sunday.

The gigantic wreath hanging from Strasbourg cathedral’s ceiling is a sight to behold

This custom originates in the east of France where there is a strong German influence. Indeed, the cathedral in Strasbourg has a gigantic and imposing wreath hanging from its ceiling: a sight to behold.

Image: Wandering views via Shutterstock

Santons of Provence

Peculiar to the region of Provence, santons are miniature figures which are used to make a nativity scene. They are also said to represent people from the south of France such as local shopkeepers and tradesmen.

You will find santons scenes in many parts of Provence

This delightful tradition is very popular with children and adults alike and you will find santons scenes in many parts of Provence as well as other parts of the south of the country throughout the Christmas period.

Christmas trees

Again, owing to influence from across the border in Germany, the Christmas tree tradition really started in Alsace in the mid 16th century. The tree was usually adorned with red apples, berries, nuts and lights to commemorate the birth of Christ.

These days decorations consist more of baubles and pretty lights, often with an angel or star on top, much as in the UK.

Make oysters a central part of your festivities

Christmas Eve

Here also is where France (and many other European countries) differ from the UK. Christmas Eve is really the main celebration with a huge “Reveillon” dinner being prepared and shared amongst the family. The meal can last for hours and has pretty much become a somewhat sacred tradition in France.

On the menu you may find turkey, duck or goose as well as a selection of shellfish. Oysters are very popular in many areas, particularly in the south of France and an entire platter with an assortment of shellfish is considered the norm.

Carols

Every region of France has its own particular Christmas carols. Some you will have heard of, some not, but the tradition goes back hundreds of years. Some English carols have been translated into French such as “Silent Night” (Douce nuit).

Christmas markets can be found in most major cities across Europe

Christmas markets

Christmas markets across Europe seem to have gained hugely in popularity over the last 20 years or so. On the east side of France in the Alsace region where it borders Germany, the markets have a real Germanic feel to them. Little wooden structures like ski chalets pop up everywhere and the atmosphere is very festive. Think mulled wine, crepes and chestnuts! Strasbourg hosts one of the largest and oldest Christmas markets in France but you will likely find one in most towns and villages.

A French Christmas is a joyous family affair. Each region of France will have its own special celebrations but the importance of Christmas’ real meaning is at the heart of every homestead. Joyeux Noël!

The nativity scene

Many French villages are proud to display a giant nativity scene in the centre for all residents to enjoy. The nativity perhaps holds more importance in France than the UK. It is said to have started after the general nativity scene ban during the French revolution when individual households began doing their own nativity scenes.

Nowadays the whole idea of nativity has risen to the fore. Naturally the tradition is catholic with larger churches and cathedrals proudly displaying their scenes which attract thousands of visitors throughout the whole Christmas season.