The santons that decorate European nativity scenes are said to have originated in Provence at the beginning of the 16th century. Indeed, just as a "living" nativity scene was presented in church to recall the Nativity, these small figures, called "santoun" (little saints), were created to adorn the Christmas nativity scene in Provençal families. In…
A few evergreen branches and natural decorations make the basis for a beautiful Christmas wreath to hang on a door or wall in any room of your home. Here are the steps to complete this easy project. Materials Two cardboard circles in the size of your choice A glue gun A roll of…
Also known as an "Advent wreath," this Christmas ornament is made in more than one country around the world, with some variations from one place to another. Some wreaths will hold candles, while others are very colorful and will be used to decorate the front door or a room in the house, or as a centerpiece. Chic, rustic,…
Every country celebrates Christmas in its own way, and culinary traditions vary as well. For example, in Germany, the traditional Stollen, a delicious bread filled with dried and candied fruit and almond paste, has been served for over 500 years. In Belgium, sauerkraut is the star of the show. However, to respect tradition, a piece…
Last year, around this time, we published a series of articles on the various Christmas markets you can visit in Europe. Here are some notes on some of them, if you plan to include a visit to one of these cities in your holiday itinerary. The Zurich Market (Switzerland)…
Creating a magical Christmas atmosphere requires few elements and a little imagination. Here are some ideas to inspire you, if you haven't finished your decorations yet. Tips and tricks 1. Use lanterns, candles, and tealight holders on windowsills, tables, and the fireplace to add brightness. This twinkling will be reflected...
The tradition of these "crackers," a kind of oversized candy that you break at Christmas by pulling both ends at the same time (to find a surprise inside), comes to us from England. A tradition that has become widely known beyond British lands, since it can be found in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Africa...
The only European Christmas market to take place in an amusement park is undoubtedly the Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen. Every year, the beautiful gardens of Tivoli Park host a Christmas market considered the most beautiful in the Danish capital. From November 12 to December 30, 2010, visitors can wander through…
Everyone knows Santa Claus, but who is the one we call "Mother Christmas"? The one who is sometimes portrayed in advertising as Santa's wife? If all children learn one day that the Old Man with the White Beard is much less real than they imagined, it would seem...
Kids love making these adorable elves place cards for Christmas dinner. Here are the instructions for making this project as a family. Supplies: A basket of pine cones Hazelnuts A few pipe cleaners Gel glue (for kids) or glue gun (for adults) Colored felt…
In Provence, no one could imagine Christmas Eve without serving the 13 desserts. This ancient custom probably dates back to the end of the 19th century, and is attributed to the members of Cremascle, a Marseille association. However, there are more than one known origin, but what we know for sure is that...
Christmas can be said to be a "rediscovered holiday" for Ukraine, at least in the eastern and central parts of the country. Indeed, during the Soviet era, it was no longer an official holiday in the country. Nine years ago, the custom of celebrating Christmas became official again. A religious holiday par excellence...
In Australia, one wouldn't dream of ending Christmas dinner without a beautiful and delicious dessert called Pavlova. The name of this dessert recalls a pastry chef's homage to a great Russian dancer, Anna Pavlova, who came to Australia for a tour of shows in the 1920s. Ingredients To make this recipe...
At the end of each year, a visit to a Christmas circus is a short journey into a wonderful world that enchants young and old alike. In the series "The Great Christmas Circuses in Europe," we present a first mention: the Bouglione Christmas Circus in Paris. During the winter, a few weeks before Christmas, the…
The holiday season is upon us. For the occasion, ladies, let's forget classic makeup and be bold. Let's go all out! For a star-studded Christmas, the trend is toward silky textures, subtle shine, and iridescent tones that enhance femininity. We dare to wear provocative lips,…
It only takes a few touches of originality and color to create a festive Christmas atmosphere in our homes. Here are some easy suggestions to achieve this: Colors For your decorations (both the rooms and the tree), first choose traditional combinations of colors that blend harmoniously, such as red and…
If there is one country where Christmas has always been, first and foremost, a religious holiday, it is Ireland! Over the past 15 years, however, the celebration of the holiday has gradually become more secular, but it still remains a major event. Family On December 25, family members gather in…
While we are well aware of the rites and traditions of Christmas, perhaps we are less aware of the superstitions and unusual customs associated with this special day of the year? In Ancient Rome: During the festivities, the Romans enjoyed a role-playing game that consisted of taking the place of their slaves. Among the latter, a…
