: Before heading to bed or Midnight Mass, children don't hang stockings. Instead, they place their shoes (souliers) by the fireplace . In a uniquely French twist, Père Noël travels with a donkey named

If Part 1 of our French Christmas series covered the twinkling lights of the marchés de Noël and the arrival of Saint Nicolas

Baked inside every cake is a fève —traditionally a porcelain figurine. The cake is sliced, and the youngest child climbs under the table to call out who receives each piece blindly. Whoever finds the fève in their slice is crowned king or queen for the day, receives a golden paper crown, and must choose a partner to rule alongside them.

While many traditional customs endure, modern French Christmases often blend secular and religious elements. Urban families may prioritize time off, travel, or parties, and convenience foods are more common than in generations past. Environmental and ethical concerns have also influenced choices — from opting for local produce and artisanal gifts to favoring sustainable trees and reduced waste. Online shopping and globalized gift trends mean that presents and culinary ideas from other cultures now join the Christmas table in many households.

French cuisine plays a significant role in Christmas celebrations, with a focus on rich, hearty dishes and sweet treats. Some popular Christmas foods in France include:

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The French Christmas celebration is not just about the traditions and food; it's also about the festive atmosphere. The streets, homes, and public spaces are adorned with twinkling lights, garlands, and decorations. The air is filled with the sweet scent of mulled wine, hot chocolate, and freshly baked pastries.

As you plan your own French-inspired Christmas, do not just buy a bûche. Ask yourself: Am I a capon family? Or a cardoon family? Better yet, fuse the two – serve oysters for the apéro, then a chestnut-stuffed turkey, and finish with a single nougat and a prayer to Tante Arie.

The major exception to the post-Christmas return to work is the northeastern region of Alsace-Moselle. Due to historical ties and legal precedents retained from periods of German governance, December 26 is celebrated as Saint Stephen’s Day ( Saint-Étienne ). It is an official public holiday in this region. Shops, banks, and government offices remain closed, allowing families an extra day to gather, finish leftovers from the Réveillon feast, and visit local holiday markets. The Continuity of the Crèche

Welcome back! In Part 1, we covered Advent traditions, the Saint-Nicolas celebration, and Christmas markets. Now, let’s dive into the grand finale: Christmas Eve, festive feasts, and unique New Year’s customs.

In Provence, the nativity scene features santons (little saints), which are hand-painted terracotta figurines representing traditional 19th-century Provençal villagers, such as the baker, the mayor, the shepherd, and the lavender seller. The crèche remains fully assembled until Candlemas ( La Chandeleur ) on February 2.