Provence is the place Christmas appears like a heat embrace: aromatic, colourful, filled with handcrafted appeal and historical traditions.
From mid-November via December, cities and villages set up intimate Christmas markets the place native artisans showcase decorations, santons (little clay collectible figurines), scented soaps, pottery, and tables provide the treasures of the season.
One of the cherished rituals right here is the Gros Souper (Huge Supper) on Christmas Eve, adopted by the beloved 13 Desserts (Les Treize Desserts), a variety of 13 candy treats representing Jesus and his twelve apostles.
Amongst them: la pompe à l’huile (olive oil brioche), white and black nougat, dried fruits and nuts, recent fruit (oranges, mandarins, pears), calissons from Aix, quince paste, oreillettes (skinny fried pastries), and extra.
The nativity scenes are deeply symbolic and fantastically crafted. Santon festivals start in lots of villages in mid-November.
These little collectible figurines, handmade and painted, painting not simply the Holy Household however an whole Provencal village: shepherds, bakers, fishmongers, medical doctors, every with character.
Different Provençal traditions enrich the expertise:
– Sainte-Barbe’s Day (December 4), when wheat and lentils are germinated and later positioned within the nativity, as a logo of abundance.
– Midnight Mass, usually accompanied by carols in Provencal dialect, and in some locations a pastorale (dramatic-crèche with villagers in costume) provides theatrical appeal.
Markets in Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, Avignon, Aubagne and lots of villages sparkle with lights, serve native delicacies and provide each presents and gastronomic treats.
Immerse your self in these Provencal Christmas markets and expertise the spirit of Christmas in South of France.
