French Christmas customs and traditions include attending Mass, decorating the tree with homemade decorations and eating the Le Reveillon meal after midnight on Christmas Eve with friends and family members. Normandy is one of several French regions that have held on to many of these traditions that date back several centuries. Normandy is famous for its classic French charm, breathtaking countryside views and miles of beautiful beaches. The village lights up during Christmas season with several unique traditions, activities and events.

December 25 and 26 are public holidays in Normandy, and all schools are closed for vacation. Normandy is one of the few places in France that hosts the traditional Christmas Market, an outdoor event that features festive stalls from vendors around the village; visitors and residents can enjoy homemade apple cider, eat freshly made crepes and take part in holiday activities with the local community.

In addition to the holiday gatherings and unique events hosted along the beachfront, Normandy serves some traditional Christmas feasts at area hotels, restaurants and chateaus. The bountiful feast, known as Le Reveillon, is a religious event that is the most important meal of the season; in Normandy, the traditional dinner table consists of La buche de Noel, the serving of a classic round cake on Ephiphany, and decorating the home with a crèche made of Nativity figurines and saints.

Some of the most notable customs and traditions in Normandy include a hog-roasting event on the beachfront; shopping the Christmas market for local baked goods and fresh produce; giving chocolate-shaped shoes to children; and hanging decorations on the Christmas tree on Christmas Eve. Visitors who want to explore the countryside of Normandy can explore the shops, cafes and restaurants for special holiday menus and treats throughout the month of December; specialties include Yule log, fresh holiday breads, fruitcake and cider. Adults typically exchange gifts on New Year’s Day, while children exchange gifts on St. Nicholas’ Day on December 6.

Some types of holiday cider contain a significant amount of alcohol, and children in France often sip on alcoholic drinks during the holiday season. Find out what the ingredients of holiday beverages are before serving to children and teenagers who are visiting the area. The Le Reveillon meal is typically held after midnight Mass on Christmas Eve; other food can be served prior to this special meal, but the special feast can only be eaten after the stroke of midnight. Children are typically given gifts on December 6, and not Christmas Day; December 6 is St. Nicholas’ Day.

Read Next 5 Articles
About French Clothing
The Best Normandy, France Tours
travel tips for France
Background Reading Prior to a Trip to Normandy, France
Best Times to Go to Europe