Growing up with Christmas traditions in France, it took me a few years to adapt when I moved to North America. I had never tasted eggnog and had to acquaint myself with Christmas movies and setting out cookies and milk for Santa—and what about turkey being eaten a whole month before at Thanksgiving? It took me some time to understand what a lovely tradition Thanksgiving is.
Living in the U.S. has made me reconnect with the traditions I grew up with, and I’d like to share some of these French traditions with you, especially the ones surrounding the festive Christmas Eve dinner, which is called “réveillon de Noël.” The word “réveillon” comes from the French verb “réveiller,” which means “to wake up” or “revive.” On this evening, French people traditionally stay up very late not only because the dinner is long and copious, but it is also followed by midnight mass—and then more food and gift-opening at home.
