Christmas in France seems to capture a traditional joy, magic and goodwill that many of us aspire to, with imaginative decorations in public places and plenty of community events ensuring a Joyeux Noel.

Christmas Eve is at the heart of family and religious celebrations, with families gathering at home for the Réveillon de Noel, a late-night feast. This is also the time to celebrate midnight mass– an uplifting tradition that visitors are welcome to share at churches in towns and cities across the country.

Although the French Christmas holiday is confined to just a few days, many community seasonal events and festivals extend over several weeks –including the Christmas markets that are held all over France, each with its own character, traditions and range of goods.

Festival events often continue into the New Year, which is marked with firework displays, dinners and even balls. Again, tradition calls for a feast, le Réveillon de Saint-Sylvestre, which usually includes champagne and delicacies like foie gras, along with kisses under the mistletoe at midnight.

If you want to experience Christmas or New year in France, we still have availability for  holiday lets. Although rentals normally start on a Saturday, which this year falls on Christmas Eve, many owners are willing to be flexible on dates. Some offer food shopping or catering and decorations in the house to make your stay easy and relaxing. Several have special offers, including a £100 discount plus champagne reception. Check out availability for Christmas and New year weeks at our Last Minute Availability page.