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 discussions around the New Year's Eve table. With all this new knowledge, you're sure to become the group's well of science (or the family's Wikipedia, depending on your grand-nephew).
D-14 before Christmas! Do you know where Santa Claus comes from?
Every December 25, Santa Claus delights children by bringing them presents by the thousands. But where does he come from and why is he red? We reveal the secrets of Santa's true story. [Read more]
Christmas history and traditions: when should you make your Christmas tree?
The Christmas windows are lighting up, the first presents are being bought... Perhaps it's time to put up and decorate your Christmas tree. But what does tradition have to say? We'll explain. [Read more]
Why decorate a Christmas tree? History and tradition of this seasonal tree
Why decorate a tree at Christmas? Where does this tradition come from? We'll try to answer that question here! [Read more]
Christmas in Paris: discover the history of the legendary Galeries Lafayette Haussmann Christmas tree
Every year, Galeries Lafayette delights the holiday season with its iconic Christmas tree. A tradition that goes back a long way! We take a look back at the history of this essential part of Parisian Christmas! [Read more]
French history and traditions: behind the scenes of the Christmas windows in Paris
Christmas window displays in Paris are a veritable part of our heritage! Every year during the festive season, passers-by flock to the windows to admire the decorations and displays designed to enchant young and old alike. [Read more]
History of French pastry: everything you need to know about the Yule log
Chestnut, chocolate, fruit, iced or rolled, large or small: the Yule log is the ultimate holiday dessert! But where does it come from, and what's its history? [Read more]
Why is Saint Nicholas Day celebrated on December 6? History and origin of this holiday
While the month of December brings dreams to all little children thanks to the arrival of Santa Claus, the beginning of the month is marked by Saint-Nicolas. Celebrated every December 6, this holiday is above all a tradition scrupulously respected in several French regions such as Lorraine and Alsace. So, who is Saint-Nicolas, and what is the history of this holiday? We tell you all about it. [Read more]
End-of-year festivities: where does the tradition of giving children presents at Christmas come from?
Why do we give presents at Christmas? When was Santa Claus born? We tell you all about the origins of this tradition, which has become popular the world over. [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 get practical! Find out all our Christmas guides for a successful festive season in Paris. And, of course, we wish you a very Merry Christmas!
