Christmas Celebration in France

In France, the Christmas festival is called Noël. This term comes from the French phrase les bonnes nouvelles, which means "the good news." This is in reference to the gospel and spreading the word of Jesus Christ’s birth.

The Christmas season in France begins with Saint Nicholas’ Day, i.e. December 6th. In eastern areas of France, particularly Alsace-Lorraine, parents give children their Christmas gifts on Saint Nicholas’ Day. Christmas in France is a time for family get-togethers, a religious festival and a celebration for both adults and children alike.

During Christmas time almost every family arranges a manger on a small stage in a prominent part of the house. In Provence, the children bring rocks, branches and moss to decorate the manger. Little terra-cotta figures, known as ‘santons’ or little saints are placed around the manger to represent the Holy Family, the other characters of the story of the Nativity, and the people of the village like the mayor, the priest, the policeman, the butcher, the baker, the miller, the farmer. In the stable family reproduce the legendary manger of Bethlehem, with the ox and the donkey placed close to Jesus, with Mary and Joseph in the front of door welcoming the visitors.

Yule log and Christmas tree never became popular in France. However, people of France prepared traditional Yule log-shaped cake called the Buche de Nol, meaning 'Christmas Log.' The main Christmas feast is grand and is known as 'Le Reveillon'. The meal varies according to the region of France. In Alsace, for example, the traditional goose is brought in on a platter and given the place of honor on the table.

Young children do not attend midnight mass with their parents, but go to bed early and dream of their Christmas gifts. Before going to bed, they put their shoes by the fireside for a gift from ‘le père de Noël’ or ‘le petit Jésus.’ Santa clause is called Père Noël, meaning ‘Father Christmas’. He is dressed in old-fashioned robes trimmed with fur, and carries a sack of gifts for children.

Churches and cathedrals, large and small, are magnificently lit with candles or artificial lights. The joyful melodies of carols, bells and carillons echoed in the church. Many churches have a crèche or manger displayed.

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