It's Time to Pimp Up the Toastie With Tasty European Cheese. Just in time for Christmas snack feasting!

Few 'rustle-ups' can beat the taste, texture and simplicity of a cheese toastie. 

With National Cheese Toastie Day taking place on Sunday 27th October, there's no better time to pimp up the simple snack with this temptingly good recipe from Helen Graves @foodstories on Instagram, author of BBQ Days and Nights, editor of Pit Magazine and founder of #WillItSandwich?.

We challenged Helen to create the ultimate European cheese toastie and her recipe certainly hits the indulgence spot, thanks to the inclusion of the delicious, creamy Reblochon PDO cheese. 

Says Helen: “This toastie is inspired by a comfort food classic: tartiflette. Layers of creamy mashed potato, sweet caramelised onions, bacon and - the crowning glory - some oozing Reblochon cheese, make this a really, seriously good sandwich. Serve with cornichons and mustard to balance the richness.” 

Anyone who has enjoyed the gratifying goodness of tartiflette on a cold autumn day, will testify that it's a real winner of a dish. And after a hike around the stunning valleys of the Savoie it tastes even better!

Helen's suggested top serve is serving the Tartiflette Toastie simply with mustard and cornichons but you could also serve it with a salad tossed in a Dijon mustard dressing and a glass of dry white wine from the Savoie.

Reblochon has been produced in the Savoie region for more than half a Millennium and is exclusively produced with locally-produced whole raw cow's milk. 

The cheese is so called, because the farmers would wait until the tax collectors had visited until they milked their cows the second time, to avoid paying more milk tax. (Smart folks, farmers!) 

The second milking produces richer, creamer milk. 'Reblocher' means to milk again in Savoie dialect, thus Reblochon was created. The creamy textured, cheese has a mild, velvety, fruity taste and a delicious nutty aftertaste, it's utterly delicious on a Christmastime cheese board and pairs well with fruit and vegetables.

For those looking for alternatives and who appreciate cheeses with character, you can replace Reblochon with Maroilles PDO. This raw-milk cheese is considered the king of cheeses from the North of France. 

Mont d'Or PDO also lends itself very well to this comforting dish, plus it's the season for this cheese, which is only available from mid-September to mid-May. For those who prefer something a little sweeter, a Camembert with its rustic aroma will go wonderfully with the melting potatoes and toasted sourdough. 

However, for a real treat - try the recipe below. 

Tartiflette Toastie by Helen Graves

Makes 1 toastie 

2 slices sourdough bread 

100g smoked bacon lardons 

2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into even-sized chunks 

100ml cream 

¼ tsp grated nutmeg 

1 smashed garlic clove

75g butter

2 onions, sliced 

Splash of white wine 

1 sprig of thyme, leaves picked 

3 thick slices Reblochon cheese 

Cornichons and mustard, to serve 

1/ Add the onions to a frying pan with 25g butter and a pinch of salt. Cook for 40 minutes, stirring regularly, until deeply caramelised. Add the thyme and white wine and allow the wine to cook off. Set aside. 

2/ Add the bacon lardons to a small frying pan and allow the fat to render over low heat, stirring regularly, until crisp. Set aside. 

3/ Cook the potatoes in plenty of boiling salted water, then drain. 

4/ Warm 25g butter with the cream and garlic clove. 

5/ Strain the garlic clove and mash the potatoes with the cream and butter. Season well. 

6/ Heat a skillet or frying pan and add the remaining butter. 

Take one slice of sourdough and top with a layer of mashed potato. Add the onions, then the Reblochon cheese and bacon lardons. Add the final slice of bread and transfer to the pan. 

Cook for 5 minutes each side, or until golden brown and crisp. Serve with cornichons and mustard. 

Celebrating Christmas in Antarctica: A Unique Festive Experience at the Bottom of the World

Another part of our series on Christmas in different parts of the world. 

Christmas in Antarctica may not be the first image that springs to mind when thinking of the festive season, but for those working and living on research stations at the frozen end of the Earth, it’s an occasion that brings warmth and camaraderie amidst the icy expanse. 

Despite the extreme cold and isolation, Christmas is a time of celebration, reflection, and togetherness, albeit in a setting like no other.

A White Christmas Like No Other

It’s hard to imagine a more literal white Christmas than in Antarctica, where snow covers the landscape in every direction. However, while the setting may be picture-perfect, the weather can be extreme. Temperatures during December, the peak of the Antarctic summer, can range from -20°C to just below freezing, depending on where the base is located. Despite the chilly conditions, the festive spirit thrives, with some unique customs and adjustments to suit the environment.

How Christmas Is Celebrated

Festive Feasts

Christmas meals are one of the highlights of the day for Antarctic personnel. The chefs on base often go to great lengths to prepare traditional Christmas dishes, despite the limitations on fresh food. Since supply runs are infrequent, many ingredients are preserved or frozen, but this doesn't stop bases from serving up impressive spreads, including roast turkey, vegetables, and even mince pies. For some, it's a chance to enjoy a taste of home thousands of miles away.

Decorating the Station

Despite the isolation and often stark surroundings, bases are usually decorated to reflect the festive season. Christmas trees—sometimes real, but more often artificial—are put up, adorned with baubles and lights. The glow of fairy lights adds a warm contrast to the constant daylight outside, as Antarctica experiences 24 hours of sunlight during the summer months.

Gift Exchanges and Secret Santa

With the close-knit communities formed on Antarctic research stations, Secret Santa gift exchanges are a popular way of spreading festive cheer. People often get creative with their gifts, given the limited shopping opportunities. Handcrafted presents, practical jokes, and thoughtful gestures are all part of the fun. It’s a chance for those on base to bond further and lift each other’s spirits in a remote environment.

Outdoor Adventures

Some stations take the opportunity to celebrate Christmas by heading outdoors. While the cold might be biting, outdoor activities such as a Christmas Day hike or a snowball fight add an adventurous twist to the usual festivities. In some cases, research staff will take part in informal sports matches, perhaps a game of football in the snow, albeit bundled up in layers to fend off the cold!

Connecting with Loved Ones

Being away from family during the holidays can be tough, but modern technology has made it easier for those in Antarctica to stay connected with loved ones back home. Video calls, emails, and phone calls allow personnel to share their Christmas wishes and feel a little closer to home. The remoteness and isolation make these moments of connection all the more meaningful.

A Multicultural Festivity

With researchers and staff from various nations living and working together, Christmas in Antarctica is often a multicultural celebration. While some may follow traditional Western customs, others might incorporate elements from their own cultures, creating a diverse and inclusive holiday experience. Stations with international teams may have multiple celebrations or join forces to have one big communal event.

The Spirit of Togetherness

For those working on Antarctic research stations, Christmas is as much about community as it is about tradition. The environment fosters a strong sense of togetherness, and the holiday season is an opportunity to take a break from the daily routine of scientific research and enjoy some much-needed relaxation and fun. Teamwork, support, and the shared experience of living in such a unique location make the festivities even more special.

A Festive Pause in the World of Science

While Christmas in Antarctica is undoubtedly a time of joy and celebration, the nature of research work means that operations don’t come to a complete halt. Essential scientific activities and station maintenance continue, even on Christmas Day. Nevertheless, teams try to ensure that there’s plenty of time to relax and enjoy the holiday, making the most of their brief respite in one of the most isolated places on Earth.

Celebrating Christmas in Antarctica is a truly distinctive experience. Far removed from the hustle and bustle of the commercialised festive season, it’s a time for reflection, community, and simple joys.

 While the setting may be remote, the warmth of the Christmas spirit shines brightly, proving that even in the coldest places on Earth, the festive season can be heartwarming and unforgettable.

Festive Christmas cheeseboard inspirations from the experts

Our friend Michelle has kindly offered to provide us with festive inspiration for cheeseboards from chef Claude Bosi and Jessica Summers, founder of Mouse & Grape.

And a delightful Comté recipe from Syvain Jamois, who along with fellow chef Milo Waterfield, cooks for guests on all of the Cheese Journeys tours. This is from the Jura leg of their Alpine tour.

Cheese Journeys was founded by cheesemonger Anna Juhl, and takes people on cheese trips of a lifetime. They have several journeys in France, including to the Jura (where Comté is made), Savoie, Paris and Bourgogne.  Cheese Journeys is a luxury travel brand that curates unique, culinary experiences for artisan cheese, food and wine enthusiasts. 

https://www.cheesejourneys.com

This is the recipe for Confit Duck Parmentier 

Confit Duck Parmentier

serves 6

For the filling

6 confit duck legs

6 shallots, chopped

Small bunch of thyme, leaves stripped and chopped

1 ¼ c red wine

1 ¼ c  duck or chicken stock

Handful of flat-leaf parsley, chopped

For the topping

2.5 lb mashing potatoes, peeled and cut into approx 5cm pieces

⅔ cup warm milk

2.5 oz butter

2.5 oz Comté cheese, grated

Warm the confit duck legs over a gentle heat to release the fat, then pour the fat into a clean jar. You will need some for this dish, but save the rest for roasting potatoes another day.

Boil the potatoes in salted water for 20–25 minutes until tender. Drain them well and let them steam off for a few minutes in the colander then add the warm milk, butter and cheese and mash until smooth. Check seasoning and add salt and black pepper, as required.

Remove the skin from the duck legs and discard it (or slice and roast until crisp as a nibble - these are known as Grattons). Pull away the duck meat from the legs with a couple of forks and shred it, removing and discarding any bones and gristle.

Melt 3 tablespoons of duck fat in a pan, add the shallots, thyme, a pinch of salt and plenty of black pepper. Allow the shallots to brown gently and, once they are golden, add the wine and stock, then bring to the boil. Cook for a few minutes, then add the duck meat and the chopped parsley. Check for seasoning, stir and set aside.

Preheat the oven to 190°c fan. Spoon the meat mixture into a baking dish then cover with the mashed potatoes. Bake for about 25 minutes until heated through and browned on top.

The cut of duck used for Duck Confit are duck legs. It is the lower leg plus the thigh attached, a poultry cut known as a maryland here in Australia.

It must be bone-in and with the skin on. Because it ain’t Duck Confit without crispy skin!

Why not try some unusual pairings with your continental cheeses this Christmas?

Claude Bosi, owner of Bibendum which has held two Michelin-stars since 2017 and his latest restaurant Joséphine Bouchon, shares the cheeses that he considers essential for any Christmas ‘Plateau de fromages.’

Claude has carefully selected his festive favourites as; 48 month aged Comté, Fourme d’Ambert and Saint-Marcellin. His choices are applauded by wine and cheese pairing expert Jessica Summer, founder of Mouse and Grape, who holds an Academy of Cheese certification. Below Jessica shares unusual pairings for the three cheeses that are sure to surprise and thrill your guests.

Aged Comté has the moreish nuttiness of a younger Comté but with flavours of sweet, dried fruits perfectly balanced with savoury notes. As it ages its texture becomes more crystalline and even more appealing on the bite. Charcuterie works very well and for an extra special touch, I’d propose thin slices of spiced, cured venison. For something a little different I’d also serve with a plate of festive biscuit such as a Lebkuchen or gingerbread cookies. Depending on your tastes, you can pair Comté with an Oaked White Rioja, Dry Oloroso Sherry (very festive!) and Appassimento wines.

Fourme d’Ambert is a soft creamy cheese which has the slightly salty flavours and musty aroma of blue cheese but is less overpowering than Roquefort or Stilton. For a truly indulgent accompaniment a touch of truffle honey will have guests oohing and aahing at every mouthful. For added texture try serving with chocolate honeycomb. If you are still looking to enjoy that festive port, a Tawny port would pair perfectly with Fourme d’Ambert but I’d also recommend a Bordeaux Blend or a Sparkling Rosé if you prefer something lighter or are enjoying earlier in the day.

Saint-Marcellin is a white rind cheese which can be enjoyed at all levels of maturity and becomes runnier as it ages. The cheese melts in the mouth with a slightly salty taste, a nice freshness, and flavours of fresh milk and hazelnut. To cut through the creamy richness of the cheese, serve with a bright red cherry chutney - which will not only provide a delicious pairing but will make a striking contribution to your cheese board aesthetic.

Wine-wise a Champagne or Crémant, Pinot Noir or even something as deep as a Barolo would all complement perfectly this delicious creamy cheese.

A Traditional Mexican Christmas: Festivities, Faith, and Family

Christmas in Mexico is a season of joy, vibrant traditions, and deep religious significance. 

While many might associate the holiday with snow-covered landscapes and Christmas trees, in Mexico, the celebration has a unique flavour, blending pre-Hispanic customs, Catholicism, and festive cultural practices. 

From the warm glow of farolitos (paper lanterns) lining the streets to the lively sounds of villancicos (Christmas carols) filling the air, a traditional Mexican Christmas is a feast for the senses, rooted in both community and faith.

The Christmas Season in Mexico

In Mexico, the Christmas season starts early, usually around the 16th of December, and extends well into January, culminating with Día de los Reyes (Three Kings' Day) on January 6th. This extended festive period is filled with religious and cultural events, many of which are distinctive to Mexican culture. At the heart of the celebration is a deep reverence for the nativity of Jesus, but the joyous spirit of the holiday is also marked by a sense of togetherness, food, music, and lively gatherings.

Las Posadas: The Journey of Mary and Joseph

One of the most important and widely celebrated traditions during Christmas in Mexico is Las Posadas, a nine-day reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter before the birth of Jesus. From the 16th to the 24th of December, families and communities come together to participate in these processions, which take place each evening. The name Posada means "inn" or "lodging," symbolising the inn that Mary and Joseph sought.

In this tradition, a group of people, often including children dressed as angels and shepherds, travels from house to house, singing and asking for shelter, representing Mary and Joseph’s journey. At each house, the group is traditionally turned away until they finally reach the designated house for that evening, where they are welcomed inside. The night culminates in a festive celebration with prayers, songs, and a party featuring food, drinks, and the breaking of a piñata filled with sweets and small toys for the children.

The piñata itself holds symbolic meaning: traditionally shaped like a star with seven points, it represents the seven deadly sins, and breaking it symbolises the triumph of good over evil. The bright colours and fun of the piñata add to the joyous atmosphere, making Las Posadas a highlight of the Mexican Christmas season.

Nochebuena and La Navidad

La Nochebuena, or Christmas Eve, is the most important night of the Christmas celebration in Mexico. On the 24th of December, families come together for a special Misa de Gallo (Midnight Mass) to honour the birth of Jesus. After Mass, they return home for a grand feast, celebrating La Navidad (Christmas Day) with loved ones.

The traditional Christmas Eve dinner is a lavish affair, with tables laden with delicious Mexican dishes. Common foods include tamales, a beloved dish made from corn dough filled with various meats, cheeses, or vegetables and wrapped in corn husks. Bacalao (salted cod) is another popular Christmas dish, often prepared in a rich tomato-based sauce. Side dishes like ensalada de Nochebuena (Christmas Eve salad), made with ingredients like beets, oranges, and jícama, add freshness to the meal.

For dessert, buñuelos—crispy, fried dough topped with cinnamon sugar or drizzled with syrup—are a sweet favourite, and ponche navideño, a warm fruit punch made with guava, tamarind, and cinnamon, helps keep the winter chill at bay. Family and friends gather around the table to share stories, laughter, and gratitude, reflecting the heart of Christmas as a time for togetherness and reflection.

El Nacimiento: The Nativity Scene

In Mexico, the nativity scene, or Nacimiento, plays a central role in Christmas decorations. More than just a mere decoration, the Nacimiento is often a large and intricate display that depicts the birth of Jesus, with figures of Mary, Joseph, the Baby Jesus, the Wise Men, and a host of animals and angels.

In many Mexican households, the Baby Jesus figure is not placed in the manger until the evening of La Nochebuena, symbolising His birth. Children often take part in this tradition, joyfully placing the figure in the manger as their family watches. The Nacimiento may also be found in public spaces, churches, and town squares, sometimes accompanied by live animals or large, beautifully crafted figurines. These nativity displays are a visual reminder of the religious significance of Christmas in Mexico.

Día de los Santos Inocentes and Día de Reyes

While Christmas Day itself is a time for quiet family gatherings, the festive spirit doesn’t stop there. On the 28th of December, Mexicans celebrate Día de los Santos Inocentes (Day of the Holy Innocents), a day that commemorates the biblical story of King Herod's massacre of innocent children. However, in modern Mexican culture, this day has become something akin to April Fool’s Day, with playful pranks and tricks among friends and family.

The Christmas season in Mexico officially concludes with Día de los Reyes on January 6th, also known as Epiphany or Three Kings' Day. This day honours the arrival of the Wise Men bearing gifts for the Baby Jesus. Children place their shoes out the night before, hoping to find small presents from the Reyes Magos (Wise Men) the next morning.

One of the most beloved traditions on Día de los Reyes is the cutting of the Rosca de Reyes, a sweet bread shaped like a crown and decorated with candied fruits to represent the jewels of the Wise Men. Hidden inside the bread is a small figurine of Baby Jesus, and whoever finds it must host a party on Día de la Candelaria (Candlemas) on February 2nd, extending the festive season even further.

The Spirit of Christmas in Mexico

Christmas in Mexico is a celebration that beautifully weaves together faith, family, and festivity. The season is marked not just by religious observance, but by a deep sense of community and generosity. Whether it's the shared joy of Las Posadas, the warmth of family gatherings on Christmas Eve, or the delicious aromas of traditional holiday foods, Christmas in Mexico is a time of gratitude and togetherness.

At its heart, a traditional Mexican Christmas is a reminder of the importance of faith, charity, and connection with loved ones. It is a season filled with light, laughter, and love, as Mexicans come together to honour the spirit of the holiday and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Celebrating Thanksgiving in Canada: A Unique Tradition

Thanksgiving is a holiday that often brings to mind images of autumn leaves, family gatherings, and a feast fit for a celebration. 

While many around the world associate Thanksgiving with the United States, it’s important to remember that Canada has its own rich tradition of giving thanks, celebrated on the second Monday in October. 

Though the customs may share some similarities with their American counterparts, Canadian Thanksgiving holds its own distinct charm, steeped in history and reflective of the country’s unique cultural tapestry.

A Brief History of Canadian Thanksgiving

The origins of Canadian Thanksgiving date back much earlier than its American version, with roots in both European and Indigenous traditions. The first recorded Thanksgiving celebration in Canada is often traced to 1578, when the English explorer Martin Frobisher held a ceremony to give thanks for his safe return after a perilous journey through the Arctic. This event, which took place in what is now Newfoundland, is often regarded as the earliest example of European Thanksgiving in North America.

Over time, Thanksgiving in Canada evolved from these early celebrations, blending the traditions of French settlers who marked the end of the harvest season with feasts, and Indigenous peoples, who had long held ceremonies to celebrate the bounty of the land. It wasn’t until 1879, however, that Thanksgiving was officially declared a national holiday in Canada, and the modern form of the celebration began to take shape.

When is Canadian Thanksgiving?

Canadian Thanksgiving falls on the second Monday in October, aligning with the earlier harvest season in Canada compared to the United States, which celebrates the holiday in late November. The timing of the Canadian holiday reflects the country's more northerly climate, where crops are harvested earlier in the autumn.

This date also means that Thanksgiving often coincides with the peak of the stunning autumn foliage in much of Canada, making it a picturesque time for families to gather and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding them. The long weekend provides Canadians with a perfect opportunity to spend time outdoors, whether it’s hiking through vibrant forests, visiting pumpkin patches, or simply taking in the crisp, cool air.

Canadian Thanksgiving Traditions

While Thanksgiving in Canada shares some customs with the American holiday, including the emphasis on gratitude, family, and feasting, it has its own set of traditions that make it distinct.

The Feast

At the heart of any Thanksgiving celebration is, of course, the feast. Traditional foods like turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce are staples on most Canadian Thanksgiving tables, though regional variations exist. In provinces like Quebec, for example, tourtière, a savoury meat pie, is often included in the holiday meal. Pumpkin pie is another popular dessert, signalling the autumn harvest and the end of a satisfying feast.

In some households, meals may also include a nod to the cultural diversity that defines Canada, with dishes from various immigrant traditions making their way onto the Thanksgiving table. This blend of flavours mirrors the country's multicultural identity and adds a unique twist to the celebration.

Giving Thanks and Gratitude

Thanksgiving is, at its core, a time to reflect on the blessings of the year and express gratitude. In Canada, the focus tends to be on family, friends, and the abundance of nature. Many families begin their Thanksgiving meals with a moment of reflection or a prayer of thanks, acknowledging the good fortune they have experienced.

While the holiday is more low-key than in the United States—there are no parades like Macy’s or American football dominating the day—Thanksgiving in Canada is still an important time for family gatherings. The long weekend provides an opportunity for loved ones to reconnect, often travelling from far and wide to share a meal and create lasting memories.

Outdoor Activities and the Great Outdoors

With Thanksgiving falling at such a beautiful time of year, many Canadians take advantage of the long weekend to spend time outdoors. For some, this means hiking through Canada’s stunning landscapes, while others may enjoy the final moments of harvest at local farms or participate in seasonal activities like apple picking.

It’s also not uncommon for Canadians to engage in some sport, particularly watching or playing a game of ice hockey, which remains a national pastime. For others, Thanksgiving might involve watching Canadian football, as the Canadian Football League (CFL) typically holds games over the long weekend, adding a spirited touch to the festivities.

The Spirit of Thanksgiving

While Thanksgiving in Canada may not have the same level of commercialisation as its American counterpart—there’s no Canadian equivalent to Black Friday—the holiday retains a focus on togetherness, gratitude, and simplicity. The more modest approach to the celebration perhaps reflects the values that many Canadians hold dear: appreciation for family, a deep connection to the land, and a sense of community.

Whether gathered around a bountiful table or enjoying a peaceful walk through the autumn woods, Canadians come together each October to pause and give thanks for the blessings in their lives. It’s a time to savour the season’s offerings, both in terms of food and experiences, and to reconnect with the things that truly matter.

In a world that often moves too quickly, Thanksgiving in Canada serves as a gentle reminder to slow down, appreciate the moment, and express gratitude for the abundance around us. Whether you’re celebrating with a traditional meal, spending time outdoors, or simply enjoying the company of loved ones, the essence of Canadian Thanksgiving lies in the simple, heartfelt act of giving thank

Christmas in the Vatican: A Celebration of Tradition and Spirituality

Christmas in the Vatican is a unique and deeply spiritual experience, blending centuries of tradition with the vibrant energy of modern celebrations. As the heart of the Roman Catholic Church, Vatican City becomes a focal point for millions of pilgrims and tourists alike during this sacred season. 

The city-state, the smallest in the world, takes on a special atmosphere, rich with history, faith, and ceremony.

A Place of Pilgrimage and Devotion

For devout Catholics, the Vatican holds immense significance year-round, but it takes on even greater importance during the Christmas season. Thousands flock to St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square to participate in the various religious services and to witness the Pope’s public appearances. The Christmas period is an opportunity for believers to feel more connected to their faith, with the Vatican serving as a global symbol of hope, peace, and goodwill.

The Lighting of the Christmas Tree and Nativity Scene

A key event marking the beginning of Christmas festivities in the Vatican is the unveiling of the life-sized nativity scene and the lighting of the enormous Christmas tree in St. Peter’s Square. Traditionally, the nativity scene, or presepe, is donated by a different region or country each year, and it is always a stunning and symbolic display. Crafted with extraordinary detail, the scene depicts the birth of Jesus Christ, surrounded by figures from the story of the Nativity, set against a backdrop that often reflects the cultural heritage of the donating country.

The Christmas tree, also a gift from a region of Italy or another country, stands tall and magnificent in the square. Its grand illumination ceremony, which takes place in early December, is a moment of joy and reflection. The tree and nativity scene are not just decorations but profound expressions of faith that remind visitors of the true meaning of Christmas.

Midnight Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica

One of the most anticipated events in the Vatican’s Christmas calendar is the Midnight Mass, celebrated on Christmas Eve in St. Peter’s Basilica. This grand liturgical celebration, presided over by the Pope, is attended by cardinals, bishops, clergy, and pilgrims from around the world. The basilica, with its awe-inspiring architecture and sacred atmosphere, provides the perfect setting for this deeply moving service.

Though traditionally known as Midnight Mass, the service is now held earlier in the evening for practical reasons. The Pope delivers a powerful homily, often focusing on themes of peace, compassion, and hope, addressing not only the faithful in attendance but also millions of people who watch the Mass broadcast globally.

The Mass is a moment of reflection on the birth of Christ, and for many, it is the pinnacle of the Vatican’s Christmas celebrations. The combination of the solemnity of the service, the ethereal music of the Sistine Chapel Choir, and the grandeur of the basilica creates an unforgettable spiritual experience.

Urbi et Orbi: The Pope’s Christmas Blessing

On Christmas Day, the Pope delivers the Urbi et Orbi ("to the city and to the world") blessing from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. This special message is given twice a year, on Christmas and Easter, and it is an opportunity for the Pope to address not only the Roman Catholic Church but also people of all faiths around the globe.

The blessing is both a prayer for peace and a reflection on the state of the world. The Pope often speaks about the importance of compassion, unity, and justice, offering hope to those suffering from conflict, poverty, and hardship. The blessing is broadcast live to millions and provides a moment of spiritual connection for Catholics and non-Catholics alike.

A Time of Reflection and Community

Beyond the grand ceremonies, Christmas in the Vatican is also a time of personal reflection and community. Pilgrims who visit during this period often take part in the various prayer services and events held throughout Advent, leading up to Christmas. The Vatican Museums, with their extraordinary collections of religious art, also draw visitors seeking to deepen their understanding of Christian history and spirituality.

The atmosphere in Vatican City during Christmas is one of serenity and devotion. The streets around St. Peter’s Square are filled with people from all corners of the world, united by a shared sense of reverence and joy. The quiet beauty of the Vatican at this time, with its softly glowing lights and sacred spaces, provides a space for contemplation and connection.

Christmas in the Vatican is an extraordinary blend of history, faith, and celebration. Whether you are a devout Catholic, a curious traveller, or someone seeking a deeper understanding of spiritual traditions, experiencing the Vatican during this time of year is unforgettable. From the solemnity of Midnight Mass to the Pope’s heartfelt Urbi et Orbi blessing, the Vatican’s Christmas celebrations offer a profound reminder of the enduring power of faith, love, and peace.

If you ever have the opportunity to spend Christmas in the Vatican, be prepared for an experience that is as spiritually enriching as it is beautiful. It is a time when the heart of Catholicism opens its doors to the world, inviting all to share in the joy and mystery of the Nativity.

The Welsh Cheese Company launches "Giant Christmas Cheese Cracker!'

This Christmas you'll be able to give the gift of fine Welsh cheese with a festive twist, as The Welsh Cheese Company launches its brand new Giant Welsh Cheese Christmas Cracker, containing a festive dozen of Wales' finest artisan cheeses. 

This exclusive cracker is the perfect way to add a delicious touch to your festive celebrations.

Beautifully and carefully packaged in a festive, cracker-shaped box that’s over half a metre long, this unique gift, priced at £79 is a true celebration of Welsh cheesemaking, including favourites from some of the best cheesemakers from all over Wales like Caws Cenarth and The Snowdonia Cheese Company.

Inside each cracker, twelve distinct artisan cheeses showcase the country's rich tradition of dairy craftsmanship and offer something for every palate:

1.     Bouncing Berry – Mature Cheddar Cheese with Dried Cranberries (200g)

2.     Caws Cryf – Extra Mature Cheddar (200g)

3.     Angiddy – Soft Brie-Style Cheese (150g)

4.     Beechwood – Naturally Smoked Mature Cheddar (200g)

5.     Perl Wen – Creamy White-Rinded Cheese (200g)

6.     Black Sheep – Creamy Sheep’s Cheese (150g)

7.     Brandy & Apricot – Organic cheddar with brandy and apricots (200g)

8.     Amber Mist – Mature Cheddar with

9.     Black Bomber – Extra Mature Cheddar (200g)

10.  Perl Las – Creamy Blue-Veined Cheese (200g)

11.  Blue Wenallt – A Meltingly Soft Creamy Blue (200g)

12.  Cheddar with Leeks - Creamy Mature Cheddar Blended With Real Leeks (200g)

Founder of The Welsh Cheese Company, Tom Pinder, said, "We really wanted to create something really special for the upcoming Christmas season, and our Giant Welsh Cheese Cracker is a fun, festive way to showcase the best of Welsh cheese. It’s a unique gift that’s perfect for cheese lovers, and a great addition to any Christmas spread or dinner party."

There's also a Mini Welsh Cheese Christmas Cracker, too.

Three smaller versions of the Welsh Cheese Christmas Cracker, containing four of Wales' finest artisan cheeses, will also be available for the first time this year. With three different versions to choose from - the ‘Artisan’, the ‘Famous Four’ and the ‘Festive Cheddars’ - each of the ‘mini’ crackers are priced at £32 each, or all three for £79.

The Artisan

·      Blue Wenallt 200g

·      Angiddy 200g

·      Cenarth with Leek 200g

·      Black Sheep 150g

The Famous Four

·      Black Bomber 200g

·      Perl Las 200g

·      Perl Wen 200g

·      Beechwood 200g

The Festive Cheddars

·      Bouncing Berry 200g

·      Amber Mist 200g

·      Caws Cryf 200g

·      Brandy and Apricot Cheddar 200g

But there's more! All of The Welsh Cheese Company’s crackers also contain special festive party hats and cheesy jokes! To find out more, visit: www.welshcheesecompany.co.uk/products/christmas.