Christmas is just around the corner! I absolutely love this time of year (and I hope you do, too ;)). In France, we have several cherished traditions that we celebrate every Christmas. So, I thought, why not share some of these uniquely French customs in today’s article? From festive greetings to traditional French Christmas treats like papillotes and the iconic bûche de Noël, as well as classic French holiday decorations, here are fifteen Christmas traditions from France that you might want to incorporate into your own celebrations this year. I hope you’ll enjoy this article and that it brings a little bit of French Christmas spirit your way!
1. French Christmas Greetings
Joyeux Noël et joyeuses fêtes de fin d’année!
In France, we say “Joyeux Noël” to wish someone a Merry Christmas, but unlike in some other cultures, we don’t start saying it weeks in advance. It’s usually reserved for just a few days before Christmas — a little touch of tradition! Christmas cards aren’t very common here, either. Instead, we typically send cards to celebrate the New Year. To wish someone a Happy New Year, we say “Bonne Année.”
2. Advent Calendars
Advent calendars, or “Les Calendriers de l’Avent,” are a beloved tradition in France. Every year, French chocolatiers and luxury brands create stunning advent calendars that go far beyond simple chocolates — they’ve become essential for adding a festive, cozy touch to holiday decor. These days, the offerings are more diverse than ever. Many French and Parisian brands release beautifully designed calendars filled with treats like gourmet teas, luxury beauty products and candles, and other high-end surprises. It’s such a delightful way to count down to Christmas, opening a new window each day until Christmas Eve!
3. The Christmas Tree
According to Catholic tradition, the Christmas tree (“le sapin de Noël”) should be put up on Christmas Eve (December 24th) and taken down twelve days after Christmas, on Epiphany. But in reality, there’s no strict rule — it all depends on personal preference. I love putting up my tree right after La Toussaint (early November) so I can enjoy the magic of Christmas for as long as possible! I usually take it down around mid-January. Most French households set up their Christmas trees by mid-December, though some start as early as December 1st. As for the streets, you’ll see festive lights and decorations appear from the first Sunday of Advent (or sometimes earlier), adding a magical holiday atmosphere to towns and cities across France.
4. The Nativity Scene
In most French homes, you’ll find “la crèche,” or the Nativity scene displayed right under the Christmas tree. It’s a cherished part of French Christmas decorations and holds special significance in French Catholic traditions. The Nativity scene features many small figurines, known as “santons” in Provence, representing townsfolk gathering around the stable to celebrate the birth of baby Jesus. Each figure has its own unique role, making la crèche a beautiful and meaningful way to bring the Christmas story to life.
5. Advent Wreaths
Advent wreaths, or “les couronnes de l’Avent,” are a beloved tradition in France. Made from fir and pine branches, they’re typically crafted for the first Sunday of Advent and beautifully decorated with red ribbons, pinecones, and other natural touches. You’ll often see Advent wreaths displayed on tables as festive centerpieces or hanging on front doors and windows, adding a warm, welcoming touch to French homes throughout the holiday season. They’re a simple yet elegant way to embrace the Christmas spirit!
6. Christmas Markets
Christmas markets, or “les marchés de Noël,” are a magical part of the French Christmas tradition. Picture charming wooden chalet-style stalls filled with all kinds of treasures and festive treats — they’re the perfect place to soak up the holiday spirit while getting your Christmas shopping done :). At a traditional French Christmas market, especially in the Alsace region, you’ll find beautifully crafted local arts and crafts, handmade, unique Christmas ornaments, and delicious holiday treats like “pain d’épices” (gingerbread) and other regional delicacies. It’s truly everything you need to celebrate Christmas à la française!
7. Christmas Eve or Christmas Day
When do the French celebrate Christmas? If you’re ever invited to a Christmas meal in France, the first thing to check is what day it’s happening! In France, the main holiday feast can be on the evening of December 24th (le réveillon de Noël) or on December 25th (le jour de Noël). Traditionally, religious families would have their big Christmas dinner on the 24th before attending midnight mass. While some families still follow this tradition (with or without mass), many now prefer to celebrate with a festive lunch on the 25th, especially since it’s a national holiday.
Some families even enjoy two Christmas gatherings! The first is often a simpler, more intimate meal on Christmas Eve with close family, while the second, on Christmas Day, is a grander celebration with the extended family — complete with a more elaborate feast and plenty of holiday cheer!
8. Midnight Mass
Midnight Mass, or “la Messe de Minuit,” is a cherished Christmas tradition for many Christians in France. Held on Christmas Eve, it’s a special moment of reflection and celebration during the holiday season. After the service, many churches host a small reception where members of the church community gather to share warm drinks, treats, and conversation before heading back home. It’s a lovely way to connect, celebrate, and spread the Christmas spirit together.
9. Christmas Presents
In France, we don’t hang stockings by the fireplace at Christmas. Instead, “les cadeaux de Noël” (Christmas gifts) are usually placed under the Christmas tree — or right next to it! Kids typically open their presents on Christmas morning, while adults often wait until after Christmas lunch (if they’re celebrating on the 25th). It’s also very common in France to give festive gifts like boxes of chocolates, bottles of Champagne, or fine wine — thoughtful treats that add a touch of French chic to the holiday season!
10. Shoes by the Fireplace
According to tradition, on Christmas Eve, French children leave their shoes by the fireplace (“les souliers au coin du feu”) filled with small treats for le Père Noël (Santa Claus) before heading to bed. In return, Santa takes the treats and leaves presents in their place — a magical moment children eagerly await! This tradition is beautifully captured in the beloved French Christmas song “Petit Papa Noël”:
“Petit Papa Noël
Quand tu descendras du ciel
Avec des jouets par milliers
N’oublie pas mon petit soulier”
It’s a sweet and timeless holiday ritual that adds extra magic to Christmas in France!
11. French Christmas Songs
Christmas carols and holiday hymns are such a magical part of the holiday season! While many classic carols come from England or Germany, France has its own beautiful Christmas songs that are definitely worth a listen. Here are five of the most popular French Christmas songs you might enjoy:
- “Mon Beau Sapin” (O Christmas Tree)
- “Il Est Né, Le Divin Enfant”
- “Vive le Vent” (Jingle Bells)
- “Douce Nuit, Sainte Nuit” (Silent Night)
- “Petit Papa Noël”
12. Table Setting à la Française
It’s no surprise that in France, the Christmas dinner is the heart of the holiday celebration ;). Setting a beautiful table is a cherished tradition and an essential part of our culture. We love making our Christmas dining tables look elegant, festive, and inviting. To set your table the French way, choose luxury dinnerware, polished silverware, crystal glasses, and refined table decorations. And don’t forget — the presentation of the dishes should be just as elegant as the table itself. After all, in France, the art of dining is all about creating a memorable experience for everyone gathered around the table!
13. Christmas Menu
If you’ve ever heard that French people love to eat slowly and savor every bite, the Christmas meal is the perfect example! This festive meal can last up to six hours, filled with delicious courses and plenty of holiday cheer. Here’s what you can typically expect:
The meal usually starts with indulgent appetizers like foie gras, smoked salmon, oysters, escargots, and even caviar at the most luxurious tables. After the starters, you might see a seafood gratin make an appearance. For the main course, large roasted poultry such as capon or turkey is traditionally served, often accompanied by chestnuts or a cardoon gratin. After that comes the beloved cheese plate, usually paired with a simple green salad.
To finish this grand feast, there’s the iconic bûche de Noël (yule log), which comes in two versions: pâtissière (a sponge cake with buttercream) or glacée (an ice cream cake). Personally, I prefer the ice cream version — after hours of eating, it’s lighter and easier to enjoy ;)! Many French families like to end the meal with a refreshing fruit salad or fresh fruit, followed by a digestif (a post-dinner drink) and/or coffee. It’s truly a feast to remember! By the way, if you’d like to create a traditional French Christmas menu or try some classic French holiday recipes, you can find all my favorite Christmas recipes right here!
14. Les Papillotes
One of my favorite holiday treats at Christmas is les papillotes! These are delicious chocolates (or fruit jellies) wrapped in shiny, golden paper with fringed ends. Inside each one, you’ll find a little note — often a quote, a riddle, or a fun saying. The story behind les papillotes is just as sweet as the treat itself. They were invented at the end of the 18th century by a confectioner named Papillot from Lyon. According to legend, he got the idea from his young apprentice, who used to wrap chocolates in love notes and secretly send them to his sweetheart. Today, les papillotes are a beloved French Christmas tradition found in shops across France at the end of each year. They’re perfect for decorating your Christmas table or sharing with loved ones as a thoughtful holiday treat!
15. Mulled Wine
Mulled wine (“le vin chaud”) is a winter favorite in France. You’ll find it everywhere during the colder months — in bars, cafés, brasseries, and especially at French Christmas markets. It’s also become a trendy seasonal drink, perfect for cozy fireside gatherings at home or après-ski celebrations. The best part? Le vin chaud is incredibly easy to make, and the recipe can be doubled or even tripled if you’re hosting a crowd. If you’d like to try making it at home, my favorite mulled wine recipe is just below.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of red wine (Bordeaux, Burgundy, or Pinot Noir)
- 1/2 cup (125 g) brown sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 star anise
- 1 clove
- A small piece of fresh ginger (about 1 inch)
- A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
First, grate the zest of the lemon and orange. Pour the wine into a saucepan and add the citrus zest, brown sugar, and spices. Bring to a boil, then turn off the heat and cover the pan. Let the mixture steep for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Reheat gently before serving. Strain the mulled wine and serve warm, garnished with a slice of orange. Bonne dégustation!

Bonjour, I’m Léonce—though my real name is Mathilde Pittet. As a French creator, I offer a curated perspective on fashion, beauty, and lifestyle—an ode to le chic à la française. What began in 2018 as a passion project in London has grown into a journey of storytelling, inspired by authenticity and the art of living beautifully. From Paris to Amsterdam and now Bordeaux, my path has been shaped by a love of crafting moments that linger. Through Léonce Chenal, I invite you to explore the timeless allure of French style and the stories that bring it to life.
Really enjoyed your published article – love France but unable to get out due to Covid restrictions Thank you for keeping my love of French traditions alive !
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m glad my article could keep your love for French traditions alive during such a challenging time. I hope you’ve had a chance to visit France since then ;)! xo
I recently signed up for your newsletter and am really enjoying it. I am going to try the vin chaud recipe. Thank you!
Thank you so much, Wendy, for signing up and for your lovely comment! I’m pleased to hear you’re enjoying the newsletter :). I hope you loved the vin chaud recipe—it’s one of my favorites for cozy winter evenings! xo
Your Christmas traditions article was wonderful! I got so many ideas from it.
~Teresa
Thank you so much, Teresa, for your kind words! I’m delighted that my Christmas traditions article inspired you. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful holiday season! <3