Christmas in the South of France

There are many wonderful traditions here in the South of France, not least some of the wonderful Christmas markets on the port in Cannes or over on the Cours Mirabeau in Aix en Provence. The markets are full of delicious Christmas treats, all part of the traditional French Christmas.

Decorations - Even the smallest of villages will be sporting Christmas lights, traditionally illuminated on the 1st December and in the larger towns and cities there is a distinct sense of competition for the largest and most impressive displays. Here is a recent photo of the Christmas lights in Monaco in the most celebrated of locations, Casino Square.

Food and Drink - This is the land of gastronomy and Christmas is a time when even the most humble of households will be serving platters of fresh seafood, delicious 'Buche de Noel' or Christmas logs in chocolate, chesnut or vanilla flavour and possibly one of the most common delicacies over the festive season is Foie Gras - and of course everything is accompanied with a delicious champage and selection of wines. 

Creche - In Provence there is a tradition of each household having their own creche, complete with Provencal village. The characters in the creche are known as santons and are an integral part of Christmas in this part of the world. There are many famous santon designers and makers and there are many markets dedicated to santons throughout Provence.