French people do use Christmas trees (called sapin de Noël) extensively, often real firs, but traditional decorations include apples (or apple-shaped baubles), candles, ribbons, and edible treats like chocolates, reflecting historical roots in Alsace with apples and glass ornaments. Besides trees, they focus on crèches (nativity scenes), bûche de Noël (yule log cake), mistletoe, and elaborate table settings with natural elements, celebrating with rich Réveillon feasts.
Glass or plastic ornaments that resemble the apples that were traditionally hung from Christmas trees in France are also used for decorating the trees. Small white candles are also used. The use of mistletoe is considered to bring good luck and every household in France hangs mistletoe on the doors during Christmas.
Here are 10 Christmas traditions to add to your festive celebrations in France:
Christmas food specials
Dishes might include roast turkey with chestnuts or roast goose, oysters, foie gras, lobster, venison and cheeses. For dessert, a chocolate sponge cake log called a 'bûche de Noël' is normally eaten. In some parts of France, they celebrate by eating 13 different desserts!
Instead of hanging stockings, French children traditionally leave their shoes by the fireplace or near the door on Christmas Eve. The idea is that Père Noël (Father Christmas) will fill them with small gifts, sweets, or treats during the night.
Christmas trees
This familiar Christmas symbol first appeared in France in Alsace in 1521 and is called le sapin de noël or arbre de noël. Like most Westernised countries, the French put their tree up at the beginning of the season, whenever they choose to celebrate – and lay the gifts from Père Noël under the tree.
Cool stone or tiled floors, high ceilings with exposed wooden beams, and plastered walls hung with large artworks — often depicting landscapes — create a practical yet elegant ambiance. To recreate this châteaux style at home, first search for lightly distressed antique furniture in mixed wood tones.
The Christmas Tree (Le Sapin de Noël)
Christmas trees appeared in Alsace during the 16th century before spreading throughout France. Traditional decorations include: Red ribbons and bows. Glass ornaments resembling apples (referencing medieval traditions)
Santa's Donkey
In northeastern France, the donkey holds a special place. This Christmas period is particularly appreciated as a time for children and juniors. In Alsace and Lorraine, the donkey accompanies Saint Nicholas during his tour from December 5th to 6th.
Children do not hang stockings but rather leave their shoes and slippers by the fireplace. If they have been good, Père Noël will leave treats in their shoes or slippers. Nowadays, he often also leaves piles of presents under the tree.
Christmas tree types in France. Spruce – Épicéa (Picea abies) Nordmann Fir – Sapin de Nordmann (Abies nordmanniana) Noble Fir – Nobilis (Abies procera)
French country style is defined as a mix of rustic and refined decor inspired by homes in the French countryside. It's characterized by antique furnishings, ornate details, weathered finishes, warm neutrals, rustic patterns, and soft colors. The result is timelessly elegant, yet comfortably lived-in.
Most Popular Christmas Decorations
"The 3-5-7 rule is based on the idea that odd numbers of objects (ideally 3, 5, or 7) are more visually engaging and appealing than even-numbered groupings," explains interior designer Jamie Gernert.
Key Elements of the French Girl Fashion Aesthetic
Think tailored blazers, crisp white shirts, Breton stripes, high-waisted jeans, and little black dresses. These items never go out of style and can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Effortless Silhouettes: The French girl look is all about effortless elegance.
Great Britain consumes about 8 million trees annually, while in the United States between 35 and 40 million trees are sold during the Christmas season.
Unlike in the UK and many other countries, French people tend to exchange gifts on Christmas Eve, rather than Christmas Day, although kids do receive their presents from Father Christmas on Christmas Day. As France is well-known for its cuisine, it's no surprise that Christmas is a very food orientated affair!
A week before Christmas, French families display santons — figurines that represent typical villagers, such as the doctor, the baker, and the mayor — with their Nativity scenes. A few days before December 25, Christmas trees are decorated with ornaments, candles, lights, and tinsel.