You must have been born in Alsace or Germany to know about Christkindel, an enigmatic figure in Alsatian and German Christmas. A discreet figure, he is rarely seen ... Read more!
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Hans Trapp, the terror of the children of Alsace
Riding his black horse, he roams the countryside of northern Alsace with a vengeance. Hans Trapp is the terror of Alsatian gatherings. On St Nicholas' Eve, he proudly ... Read more!
Christmas Toys: the History of a Tradition
It’s Christmas morning. Impatient as ever, the children can no longer stay in bed… at full speed, they rush down the stairs to the living room where the ... Read more!
Christmas presents in France: Origins and Traditions
Christmas presents are traditionally given to children (and also to grown-ups!) at Christmas. Wrapped in a shiny gift paper with a beautiful ribbon, it is given out by ... Read more!
The Christmas pyramid: Origins and Traditions
The Christmas Pyramid, also known as the Advent Pyramid, is an important decorative element of the Christmas season in German countries. For several years now, it has been ... Read more!
The French Christmas Traditions: A Discovery Guide!
The French consider Christmas one of their most important holidays, alongside Bastille Day! How many of us have cherished memories of the most wonderful time of the year? ... Read more!
Christmas Nativity Scene at Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Montmartre
The crib inside the Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Montmartre (18th arrondissement) is one of the most visited in Paris. Embracing local traditions is an integral part of experiencing any destination. Visiting the Nativity Scene ... Read more!
Christmas Nativity Scene at Saint-François-Xavier, Paris
One of the most beautiful Nativity Scenes in Paris is found inside the church of Saint-François-Xavier in the 7th arrondissement. The large scene refers to the tradition of a Provençal Nativity Scene ... Read more!
Nativity Scene at Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris
One of the most famous Nativity Scenes in Paris is found inside the Notre-Dame cathedral and attracts almost 2 million visitors from the first Sunday of Advent to Candlemas. We have been lucky enough to ... Read more!
Christmas Nativity Scenes in France
Coming from a long Catholic tradition, Nativity scenes are still present in many households, churches and public places in France today, in both miniature and life-size displays. The ... Read more!
Christmas Nativity Scenes in Paris
Many Catholic churches in Paris set up a Nativity Scene at Christmas, whether traditional, baroque or modern. Some, like that of Notre Dame cathedral, attract thousands of visitors ... Read more!
What are the Christmas Tree Decorations in France?
With its bright lights and dazzling ornaments, the Christmas tree is one of the symbols of Christmas. In Alsace, the tradition of putting up a decorated tree at ... Read more!
What are the Christmas Tree Types in France?
They are at least three best-selling Christmas Tree types in France: spruce, Nordmann and noble fir trees. Christmas tree types in France Fir tree market in Maisons-Laffitte © French Moments ... Read more!
Facts and Figures about Christmas Trees in France
For decades, getting a Christmas Tree has stayed a popular tradition in France. In fact, the decoration of Christmas trees are known to have been popular in Alsace as ... Read more!
Do you suffer from Santa Claustrophobia or Paternatolophobie?
‘Tis the season to be jolly, and what better way to kick off the holiday festivities than with a hearty dose of laughter? We all know the iconic ... Read more!
No Christmas tree in front of Notre-Dame Cathedral
Bad news for those who wished to wonder at the traditional Christmas tree in Paris. Following the Great Fire of April 2019 there will be no Christmas tree in ... Read more!
Who is the character of Saint Nicolas?
For children of the French provinces of the Alsace, Lorraine and the Flanders, Saint-Nicolas is the character who distributes presents on the 6th December. He is the Patron Saint of Lorraine whose people ... Read more!
Today is the first Sunday of Advent
Today is the first Sunday of Advent, a time of waiting and preparing for Christmas. Advent lasts for four weeks, starting on the fourth Sunday before Christmas. Lighting ... Read more!
L’Enfant au Tambour: the story of the song
L’Enfant au Tambour… the story of the song known in English as “The Little Drummer Boy”. About the song The Little Drummer Boy was written by Katherine ... Read more!
This is the True Message of Christmas
For some people, Christmas is all about Santa, presents, Christmas trees and decorations. This is a festive season when it’s time to rejoice and gather together around a ... Read more!
