A Typical French Christmas Celebration

This is a part of our series on Christmas from various parts of the world.

When December approaches in France, the spirit of Christmas fills the air with its unique blend of winter charm, vibrant customs, and culinary delights. 

A French Christmas, or “Noël,” is steeped in tradition and family-oriented customs, making it a season that emphasises warmth, generosity, and joy. Here’s a look at what you can expect from a traditional French Christmas celebration.

Advent Season & Christmas Markets

In many regions, the Christmas season officially begins with Advent. It’s common for families to use an Advent calendar, “calendrier de l'Avent,” with a little treat or picture for each day leading up to Christmas. In the eastern regions like Alsace and Lorraine, traditions borrowed from German culture bring colourful Christmas markets, “marchés de Noël,” which are now common in cities across France. These markets are brimming with holiday treats, handicrafts, decorations, and vin chaud (hot mulled wine) — perfect for keeping warm while browsing for Christmas gifts.

The Nativity Scene – La Crèche

In France, nativity scenes, or crèches, are a cherished part of Christmas decor. They are often populated with figurines known as santons (meaning "little saints") representing not only biblical figures but also the people of the local community: farmers, bakers, fishermen, and shepherds. Provence is particularly famous for its santons, and families there may add a new figurine each year. In the days leading up to Christmas, some French families set up their crèche while children excitedly wait for le Petit Jésus to be placed in the manger on Christmas Eve.

Christmas Eve – Le Réveillon

In France, Christmas celebrations peak on Christmas Eve, with Le Réveillon, an elaborate family meal after the Midnight Mass. It’s a feast known for luxurious dishes and joyous indulgence, reflecting regional tastes and traditions. In northern France, seafood such as oysters and lobster might be a prominent feature, while in the south, dishes can include foie gras, roasted meats, and hearty stews. Bûche de Noël, a yule log cake resembling a tree branch, is the traditional dessert, often decorated with sugar dusting to resemble snow and little woodland figurines.

For those who prefer not to attend Midnight Mass, an evening church service is typically attended, followed by a celebratory meal at home. French churches are filled with carolers and worshippers, who come to celebrate the sacred aspects of Christmas before gathering around the table.

Christmas Day & Gift Giving

On Christmas morning, children wake up eager to open their presents, which are sometimes placed in stockings at the end of their beds or under the Christmas tree. Père Noël (Father Christmas) is the traditional gift-bringer, often accompanied by Père Fouettard, a character who warns children to be good. Unlike other countries where gifts are the highlight of Christmas morning, in France, the focus remains on togetherness and shared meals.

Saint Nicholas Day in Northern France

In the northeast regions like Alsace and Lorraine, the Christmas season officially starts on December 6th, known as Saint Nicholas Day. Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of Lorraine, is celebrated with parades and small gifts, especially for children. This tradition makes the Christmas season feel even longer and more festive in these regions, adding to the charm of a northern French Christmas.

Epiphany – La Fête des Rois

In France, the Christmas season extends into January, ending with the Fête des Rois (Epiphany) on January 6th. This day commemorates the arrival of the Three Wise Men. The French celebrate it with a galette des rois, a puff pastry cake filled with almond cream, or brioche des rois in the south. Inside the cake, there’s a small figurine, and the person who finds it in their slice becomes the "king" or "queen" for the day.

A French Christmas is a wonderful tapestry of flavours, traditions, and a deep sense of family connection. From the bustling markets to the sacred moments at Midnight Mass, the season feels alive with meaning and beauty. 

With so many delightful traditions, a French Christmas is truly a feast for all the senses, celebrating togetherness, joy, and a shared love for both family and faith.

How to Ensure a More Christ-Based Christmas This Year

Christmas is often seen as a time for gift-giving, festive meals, and time spent with loved ones. While these traditions are wonderful, they can sometimes overshadow the true reason for the season—the birth of Jesus Christ. 

For Christians, Christmas is about celebrating the arrival of the Saviour, yet it’s easy to get caught up in the commercial aspects and lose sight of this deeper meaning.

If you’re looking to bring Christ back to the centre of your Christmas celebrations this year, here are some meaningful ways to refocus your festivities around faith:

1. Start with Prayer

One of the simplest yet most powerful ways to bring Christ into your Christmas is through prayer. Begin the festive season by praying as a family, asking God to help you focus on the true meaning of Christmas. Pray for gratitude, for love, and for the opportunity to share Christ’s message with others. Make prayer a part of your daily routine throughout December, whether it’s praying together at the dinner table, or during Advent readings.

On Christmas Day, take time to thank God for the gift of His Son before the celebrations begin. By setting aside this sacred time, you can start the day with a heart focused on Christ.

2. Read the Nativity Story

To truly understand the significance of Christmas, it’s important to revisit the story of Christ’s birth. Read the Nativity story from the Bible (Luke 2:1-20 or Matthew 1:18-25) either as part of your Advent celebrations or on Christmas morning. It can be a wonderful family tradition to gather together and read aloud the story of how Jesus came into the world.

For children, consider using a Nativity scene or storybook to help illustrate the events. Focusing on the humble beginnings of Jesus’ life reminds us that Christmas is about more than presents—it’s about God’s ultimate gift to humanity.

3. Attend Church Services

A Christ-based Christmas should involve worship, and attending church services is a central way to do this. Many churches hold special services throughout December, including Nativity plays, Advent services, and Christmas Eve or Christmas Day services. These gatherings offer a beautiful way to come together as a community to worship and reflect on the birth of Christ.

Make attending church a priority this year, and invite family or friends to join you. It’s a wonderful way to remember the spiritual aspect of the season and to celebrate Christ’s birth with others who share your faith.

4. Incorporate Advent Traditions

Advent is the period leading up to Christmas and is a time of anticipation and preparation for the coming of Christ. There are many Advent traditions you can incorporate into your Christmas season that help keep the focus on Jesus.

One popular tradition is using an Advent calendar, which marks the days leading up to Christmas. Instead of a typical calendar filled with chocolate, look for one that includes daily Bible verses or reflections on the Nativity story. This can be a meaningful way to countdown to Christmas while keeping Christ at the centre of your thoughts.

Lighting an Advent wreath is another tradition that symbolises the coming of the light of Christ into the world. Each candle has a special meaning, and lighting them each week is a powerful reminder of the hope, peace, love, and joy that Jesus brings.

5. Give in the Spirit of Christ

While giving and receiving gifts is a part of Christmas, it’s easy to get caught up in materialism. To have a Christ-based Christmas, shift the focus of giving to reflect the love and generosity of Jesus. Consider how you can give in a way that mirrors the compassion and selflessness Christ demonstrated throughout His life.

This could mean giving to those in need, whether through donations to charities, supporting a family struggling this Christmas, or volunteering your time to help the less fortunate. Jesus taught us to care for the poor and marginalised, and embracing this aspect of His teaching during the festive season helps us remember that Christmas is about love, kindness, and serving others.

6. Create Christ-Centred Traditions

Many of our Christmas traditions, like decorating the tree or exchanging gifts, are fun but don’t always reflect the religious nature of the holiday. Why not create some new traditions that bring a Christ-centred focus to your celebrations?

You could set up a Nativity scene in your home and place Jesus in the manger on Christmas morning as part of your celebration. Another idea is to have a birthday cake for Jesus as a fun way for children to understand that Christmas is about celebrating His birth. Singing traditional Christmas carols with religious significance, like “O Holy Night” or “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” can also help keep the focus on Christ.

7. Share the Good News

Christmas is the perfect time to share the message of Christ’s love with others. Whether it’s through acts of kindness, inviting someone to church, or simply having a conversation about the true meaning of the season, take the opportunity to share your faith.

You could also send out Christmas cards that feature Bible verses or a message about the birth of Christ. In a season where so much attention is on gifts and decorations, sharing the Good News with others helps spread the light of Christ’s love.

8. Reflect on Christ’s Love

Amidst the busyness of Christmas, take time to reflect on the love of Christ and what His birth means for you personally. Set aside quiet moments during the day to think about the gift of salvation, the joy of knowing Christ, and the hope that His coming brings to the world. You could do this through Bible study, personal devotion, or simply spending time in quiet reflection.

By keeping your heart and mind focused on Jesus, you’ll find that the distractions of the season fade away, and you can truly experience the peace and joy that Christmas is meant to bring.

Conclusion

This year, make a conscious effort to have a more Christ-based Christmas by focusing on the spiritual significance of the season. Through prayer, worship, giving, and reflecting on the birth of Jesus, you can celebrate Christmas in a way that honours its true meaning. By bringing Christ back into your Christmas traditions, you’ll not only deepen your faith but also experience the joy and peace that comes from focusing on the greatest gift of all—the love of Christ.

Why Finding Nativity and Carol Services This Christmas is Cool

Christmas is a time for joy, togetherness, and reflection. While many of us look forward to festive meals, gift exchanges, and parties, there is something particularly special about attending a Nativity or Carol service during the holiday season. 

These traditions, deeply rooted in the spirit of Christmas, offer more than just a celebration of faith—they provide a moment of peace, a sense of community, and a connection to something timeless. Here’s why finding a Nativity or Carol service this Christmas is undeniably cool:

1. Rediscovering the True Meaning of Christmas

With the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping, festive parties, and family gatherings, it’s easy to lose sight of what the season is truly about. Nativity services bring the focus back to the story of Christmas—the birth of Jesus Christ. Whether you are religious or not, there is something profoundly moving about witnessing the timeless narrative of love, hope, and generosity being played out. It’s a reminder of the core values of Christmas, which often get overshadowed by the commercial aspects of the season.

2. A Moment of Calm Amidst the Festivities

Christmas is wonderful, but it can also be overwhelming. Between the shopping, cooking, and socialising, the season can leave many of us feeling frazzled. Attending a Nativity or Carol service offers a peaceful respite from the chaos. It’s a chance to slow down, reflect, and enjoy a moment of quiet contemplation. The gentle glow of candles, the sound of traditional carols, and the simplicity of the Nativity scene all create a serene atmosphere that helps to recharge your spirit during this busy time.

3. The Joy of Carol Singing

There’s something undeniably uplifting about singing Christmas carols. Whether it’s "O Come, All Ye Faithful" or "Silent Night", these timeless songs fill the air with a sense of joy and warmth that brings people together. Carol services often feature choirs, live musicians, and enthusiastic congregations, making it an interactive and fun experience for all ages. And it’s not just about the music—it’s the shared experience of singing alongside others that creates a sense of unity and belonging.

4. A Family-Friendly Tradition

Nativity and Carol services are perfect for all ages, making them a great family-friendly activity during the Christmas season. For children, watching the Nativity story unfold can be a magical experience, especially if they get to play a part in it. Many services involve children dressing up as shepherds, angels, or wise men, making it an interactive and memorable experience. It’s also a wonderful opportunity for families to create lasting traditions together, as they gather to celebrate the season in a meaningful way.

5. A Sense of Community

One of the best things about attending a Nativity or Carol service is the sense of community it fosters. These events are often hosted in local churches or public spaces, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate Christmas in unity. It’s a chance to reconnect with neighbours, meet new people, and experience a collective celebration of the festive season. In a world where many of us feel increasingly disconnected, these services provide a valuable opportunity to strengthen community ties.

6. A Nod to Tradition

There’s something inherently cool about keeping traditions alive, especially ones as timeless as the Nativity and Carol services. These events have been part of Christmas celebrations for centuries, connecting us to a long history of festive joy and religious observance. By attending a service, you’re participating in a time-honoured tradition that has been shared by generations. It’s a way of paying homage to the past while creating new memories in the present.

7. Embracing the Magic of Christmas

Christmas is a season filled with wonder, and Nativity and Carol services encapsulate the magic of this time. Whether it’s the beauty of a candlelit church, the excitement of seeing children act out the Nativity scene, or the collective joy of singing familiar carols, these services capture the enchantment and spirit of the season. It’s a celebration of light, hope, and joy—qualities that we all crave, especially during the darker winter months.

Conclusion

This Christmas, why not embrace the cool factor of attending a Nativity or Carol service? It’s more than just a religious observance—it’s an opportunity to rediscover the true meaning of the season, find peace amidst the busyness, and connect with your community in a meaningful way. Whether you go with family, friends, or on your own, these services offer a refreshing and joyful reminder of what Christmas is all about.

So, this December, make time to seek out a local Nativity or Carol service. You’ll find not only festive cheer but also a deeper connection to the spirit of Christmas—something that’s undeniably cool.

How to Stage a Nativity for Family Members, School or Church Groups in the Run-Up to Christmas

The nativity play has been a beloved Christmas tradition for centuries, re-enacting the story of Jesus’ birth in a simple yet meaningful way. 

Whether you’re organising one for a school, a church, or a family gathering, putting together a nativity is a wonderful way to bring people together during the festive season. 

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you stage a memorable nativity.

1. Planning and Preparation

Begin by determining the size and scope of your nativity play. Will it be a small family affair, or a larger production for a school, youth group or church group? Once you have a clear vision, consider the following:

Participants: Identify the number of people involved. Traditional roles include Mary, Joseph, angels, shepherds, wise men, and, of course, baby Jesus. You may need narrators or even musicians to accompany carols.

Script: There are many ready-made scripts available online, but feel free to create your own. Keep the dialogue simple, especially if children are participating. If you have a mixture of ages, consider using narration to tell parts of the story, allowing younger children to act without the pressure of speaking.

Time and Venue: Decide when and where you will perform the nativity. For schools or churches, the stage area or hall is usually ideal, while at home, a living room, garden or a gazebo in the garden can work beautifully.

2. Costumes and Props

Costumes need not be elaborate to be effective. In fact, simple, homemade outfits can add charm to the play. For instance:

Mary and Joseph: Plain robes or tunics, which can be created using large pieces of fabric or bedsheets tied with rope or belts.

Angels: White clothing paired with simple cardboard or fabric wings, perhaps decorated with glitter to catch the light and a tinsel halo, too?

Shepherds: Brown or beige robes, paired with a wooden stick as a staff. A tea towel draped over the head works wonderfully as a shepherd’s headpiece.

Wise Men: Colourful robes and homemade crowns crafted from cardboard or foil will help these characters stand out.

For props, you’ll need a manger for baby Jesus (which could be a small box filled with straw or hay), gifts for the wise men (such as wrapped boxes), and perhaps a star or two for decoration.

3. Rehearsals

Rehearsals are key to ensuring the play runs smoothly, especially if young children are involved. Here are some tips for a stress-free practice:

Keep It Light: Focus on creating a fun, relaxed environment. While the nativity is an important story, it’s meant to bring joy, so let children be themselves.

Short Rehearsals: Keep rehearsals short and sweet. Repetition is important, but don’t expect perfection, especially with younger participants.

Use Visual Aids: If participants are struggling to remember their lines or cues, consider using cue cards, or have an adult stand nearby to prompt them.

4. Incorporating Music

Music plays an important role in most nativity plays. You might want to include classic Christmas carols like "Silent Night", "Away in a Manger", or "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing". For a school or church production, live accompaniment such as a piano or guitar, or recorders works wonderfully. If this isn’t possible, recorded music can be played in the background.

Consider encouraging the audience to join in with singing the carols, creating a truly interactive and communal experience.

5. Setting the Scene

The nativity setting doesn’t require elaborate staging. A simple backdrop can be crafted using dark fabric to represent the night sky, with a few stars or twinkling lights to evoke a magical atmosphere. If you’re hosting it indoors, rearranging some furniture to create an open space will allow everyone to gather round and feel part of the scene.

For outdoor nativities, take advantage of natural settings like a garden or field, and consider setting up a stable using wooden pallets or bales of hay.

6. The Day of the Performance

When the day of the performance arrives, it’s essential to keep the mood light-hearted and festive. Whether it’s for family or a larger audience, remember that it’s not about a perfect production but celebrating the meaning of Christmas together. Some final tips:

Arrival and Seating: Make sure the audience has a good view, and consider setting up chairs or cushions for them to sit comfortably.

Recording: If possible, record the performance or take photos to create lasting memories.

After the Play: Consider hosting a small gathering after the performance, with festive treats like mince pies, mulled wine (for adults), or hot chocolate for children, to celebrate the participants' hard work.

7. Involving Everyone

If you're organising a family nativity, it’s a great opportunity to include everyone. Even those who don’t want to act can help with costumes, set design, or reading out carols. In larger groups, consider assigning older children or adults to direct, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

You could even get non-acting people to be involved in serving refreshments including biscuits, orange squash and cakes. And in washing up afterwards, too!

Final Thoughts

A nativity play brings the Christmas story to life and offers an opportunity to reflect on its true meaning amidst the busyness of the festive season. 

By following these steps, you can create a heart-warming and memorable experience for all involved, whether it’s a small family event, a school production, or a church performance.

Ultimately, the joy and spirit of Christmas will shine through, making it a special occasion for everyone.

Rediscovering the True Meaning of Christmas: A Guide to Reconnect with the Spirit of Christmas

In our modern world, the Christmas season often gets overshadowed by consumerism, materialism, and the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. 

We may find ourselves caught up in the frenzy of Christmas shopping, decorating, and party planning, but in the midst of all this, it's all too easy to forget the real meaning of Christmas. However, it's never too late to reclaim the essence of this cherished season. In this blog post, we'll explore some heartfelt ways to get the real meaning of Christmas back.

Reflect on the Origin

To reconnect with the true meaning of Christmas, it's important to reflect on its origin. Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, who is considered by Christians as the Saviour of the world. Take time to read the nativity story from the Bible and contemplate the significance of Jesus' birth. Understanding the spiritual foundation of Christmas can help you regain its true essence.

Practice Gratitude

Christmas is a time for gratitude and giving. Instead of focusing solely on what you want to receive, take a moment to appreciate what you have and consider how you can give back to others. Whether it's through acts of kindness, volunteering, or donating to charity, practicing gratitude can bring you closer to the heart of Christmas.

Spend Quality Time with Loved Ones

Amidst the seasonal chaos, it's easy to lose sight of the importance of spending time with loved ones. Make a conscious effort to connect with family and friends. Share stories, laughter, and make memories that will last a lifetime. These moments of togetherness are at the core of what makes Christmas special.

Embrace the Spirit of Giving

Instead of viewing gift-giving as a chore, approach it as an opportunity to show love and appreciation for those you care about. Thoughtful, meaningful gifts don't have to be expensive; they can be handcrafted or chosen with care to reflect the recipient's interests and needs.

Simplify Your Celebrations

In our consumer-driven society, it's easy to get caught up in the pressure to have the biggest and brightest decorations or the most extravagant parties. Consider simplifying your Christmas celebrations. Focus on what truly matters: the people you're with and the love and joy you share.

Create Meaningful Traditions

Traditions are a wonderful way to connect with the past and create lasting memories. Establish meaningful traditions that resonate with your family and values. Whether it's carolling in the neighbourhood, baking biscuits, or volunteering together, these traditions can help you reconnect with the spirit of Christmas.

Reflect and Meditate

Take some time during the Christmas season to reflect and meditate on the deeper meaning of Christmas. Consider the virtues of love, compassion, and forgiveness that are associated with this holiday. Personal reflection can help you internalise these values and live them more fully throughout the year.

Give Back to the Community

One powerful way to rediscover the true meaning of Christmas is to give back to your community. Consider volunteering at a local shelter, food bank, or charity organisation. Helping those in need can remind you of the importance of selflessness and generosity.

Conclusion

Christmas is a time to celebrate love, compassion, and the birth of Jesus Christ. While it's easy to get lost in the commercial aspects of the holiday, by taking deliberate steps to reflect, give back, and spend quality time with loved ones, you can reconnect with the real meaning of Christmas. Let this holiday season be a time of spiritual growth and a rekindling of the values that make Christmas truly special.

Alternative Nativity Costumes Proving Popular According To All Fancy Dress

It used to be the case that children would only wear the traditional kinds of costumes for nativity plays, such as Mary, Joseph and the ‘little donkey’. But, according to costume retailer All Fancy Dress, more and more nativity plays are featuring ‘alternative’ costumes.

According to Marketing Director Matt Foden, "Many of our customers are now purchasing alternative nativity costumes for their children. Indeed it’s not unusual for school nativity plays to feature a whole variety of animals nowadays, including penguins, bears, and even giraffes. And whilst the use of such animals may not be ‘historically accurate’ it’s fair to say that it does encourage more diversity and a sense of playfulness and fun. It’s quite a sight to behold such a wide array of fancy dress costumes on display!"

Sales of the more traditional nativity costumes are still strong however, with the most sought after being Mary, Joseph, and an array of different shepherd outfits. The Little Donkey makes an appearance in the top 10 costumes, as do the three kings.

According to Matt, "It’s great to see that schools are widening the range of animals being featured in nativity plays. Many would argue that it goes against the traditions of Christmas, but personally I think it adds a greater sense of colour and fun to the event."

All Fancy Dress is a top supplier of costumes and accessories in the UK. They hold over 3,000 different costumes in stock, and serve the UK and Europe. Orders can be placed online or via their dedicated sales hotline, which offers customers advice on all aspect of fancy dress costumes and accessories. You can find their website at: www.allfancydress.com