A big red man with a white beard, a log on the table and a decorated tree: our Christmas traditions seem immutable. And yet, some of these habits are not so old! This festive season, let's rediscover the stories behind our Christmas symbols.
At the end of the year, Paris is truly magical: we admire the Christmas decorations and illuminations, we salivate over the logs in the pastry shop windows, we look for the perfect gift for our loved ones... All these everyday items, repeated year after year, have a unique and fascinating history, which we'd like to share with you today.
Here are a few stories and anecdotes to liven up the conversation around the Christmas table. With this new knowledge, you're sure to be considered the group's fountain of knowledge (or the family's ChatGPT, according to your little nephew).
Christmas Tree: How long can you keep it up? Discover the traditional dates for taking it down
The holiday season has ended, but the twinkling lights remain and the Christmas tree still stands proudly in the living room: should we keep it a bit longer or start saying goodbye? The timing for taking down the Christmas tree depends as much on tradition as on our personal desire to extend — or not — the holiday magic. Here’s a roundup of the different views on the optimal moment to pack away the ornaments and tinsel for good. [Read more]
Why do we celebrate Saint Nicholas Day on December 6? Origin and history of this regional holiday
While December is a month that fills all young children with wonder thanks to the arrival of Santa Claus, the beginning of the month is also marked by Saint Nicholas Day. Celebrated every December 6, this holiday is a tradition that is scrupulously observed in several French regions, such as Alsace and Lorraine. So, who is Saint Nicholas, and what is the history of this holiday? Let us tell you all about it. [Read more]
Christmas history and tradition: where does the Nutcracker, an iconic figure of the festive season, come from?
In Christmas markets, on Christmas trees, on wrapping paper, or as decorations in homes: Nutcrackers are everywhere during the holiday season. But where does this special character come from? Let us tell you. [Read more]
Christmas history and traditions: when should you put up your Christmas tree? The question that divides opinion
The Christmas window displays are lit up, the first gifts are being bought and wrapped... It might be time to put up and decorate your Christmas tree. But what does tradition say? Here are a few answers. [Read more]
Why do we decorate a tree at Christmas? History and tradition of the king of forests and celebrations
Why do we decorate a tree at Christmas? Where does this tradition come from? Discover the origins of this iconic element of the holiday season. [Read more]
24 days after Before Christmas! Do you know where Santa Claus comes from?
Every December 25, Santa Claus brings joy to children by filling their stockings with thousands of toys. But where does he come from and why is he red? We reveal the secrets of the true story of Santa Claus. [Read more]
Christmas in Paris: the story of the legendary Christmas tree at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann
Every year, Galeries Lafayette enchants the holiday season with its iconic Christmas tree, which attracts curious visitors from around the world. This tradition dates back many years! Let's take a look back at the history of this essential part of Christmas in Paris! [Read more]
French history and traditions in Paris: Christmas window displays in department stores
Christmas window displays in Paris are a real part of the city's heritage! Every year during the holiday season, passersby flock to department stores to admire the decorations and displays designed to inspire young and old alike. [Read more]
History of French pastries: everything you need to know about the Yule log, the star of Christmas Eve celebrations
With chestnuts, chocolate, fruit, ice cream or rolled, small or large: the Yule log is the ultimate holiday dessert! But where does it come from, and what is its history? Let us tell you. [Read more]
Christmas celebrations: where does the tradition of giving gifts to children on December 25 come from?
Why do we give gifts at Christmas? When was the character of Santa Claus born? We tell you about the origins of this tradition, which has become popular around the world over the centuries and is now an essential part of the season. [Read more]
Winter history and tradition: where does the snowman custom come from?
With the arrival of winter and sub-zero temperatures, snow may once again make an appearance in France, bringing with it fun activities such as sledding, snowball fights, and snowman building. But where does the tradition of building snowmen come from? [Read more]
So, which stories did you already know, and which ones did you discover for the first time? After this little history lesson, it's time to put it into practice! Find all our Christmas guides for a successful holiday season in Paris. And of course, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a very happy holiday seasonwith your loved ones!
