Festivals
What is the Festival of Light called?
la Fête des Lumières
What is the French phrase for “Merry Christmas”?
Joyeux Noël.
What is the traditional Christmas Eve meal called?
Le réveillon de Noël.
Why is Saint Nicholas known as the protector of children?
Because he rescued three lost children from a wicked butcher.
How do you say "Baby Jesus"?
l'Enfant Jésus.
When is the celebration in honour of the Virgin Mary?
8 December
Who is le Père Noël?
He is Father Christmas.
How many desserts are served in Provence at Christmas Eve dinner?
Thirteen desserts (les treize desserts).
Who is le Père Fouettard?
A scary character representing the wicked butcher; he follows Saint Nicholas and carries a whip.
"Mary and Joseph" in French?
Marie et Joseph.
When do Christmas celebrations begin in the North East of France?
On 6 December, Saint Nicholas’ Day.
What is "Le réveillon de Noël" in English
Christmas Eve feast
What is la bûche de Noël?
A sponge and buttercream Christmas log.
What do children do on the night of 5 December?
They place their shoes at the entrance for Saint Nicholas to fill.
"The animals" in French.
les animaux.
When is the figurine of Baby Jesus placed in the crèche?
On Christmas Day.
"Bonne Année" in English?
Happy New Year.
What is la galette des Rois?
A Kings’ cake made of puff pastry, eaten on 6 January.
What do children leave out for Saint Nicholas’ donkey?
A carrot and a sugar lump.
How do you say "the village people"?
les habitants d'un village.
What is a crèche in France?
A traditional Nativity scene with small figurines called santons.
"L’Épiphanie" in Engish?
Epiphany.
What happens if you find the fève?
You become the king or queen and wear a crown.
What is the French name for Father Christmas?
Le Père Noël.
How about the "the shepherds"?
Les bergers.