How does France celebrate Christmas differently than Britain?

Answer 1

Well, it's been my experience that the primary difference is that the British tradition is handed down from the pagan festival of "yuletide"celebrating the winter solstice respectfully, December 22-25 running through January 6th. Decorating their homes with mistletoe, holly and evergreen trees.

During this time the children received extra sweets and meats. Later on the tradition of Father Christmas and "Boxing Day"on December 26th was observed when people would go around with boxes to collect gifts. There are special football games as well as horse and dog races are run.

Where as in France, it has predominately been a Christian holiday begun closer to the 25 th of December. The focus being on the Virgin Mary and the nativity scene Known as the "Creche" which is acted out in various ways such as puppet shows and plays. The French reference to the Yule log is a chocolate cake in the log shape, quit delicious by the way. Christmas Eve there is a mass followed by a big family dinner at home. Afterwards the children leave their shoes by the door to be filled with treats by"Pere Noel"(Santa Claus).

The adults then exchange gifts on new years day. The open markets are a delightful celebration of seasonal fare. The particular traditions of these of these festivals do vary in dates and practice from region to region.

Joyeux Noel merry Christmas and a happy new year.