The Christmas Fair

As a citizen of the world, I’ve lived on two continents and I’m lucky enough to experience Christmas through many different cultures. As December approaches, I think back to my childhood Christmases in Africa, in Congo-Brazzaville, and those I later experienced in Germany, in Lübeck, and now to the way we celebrate it here, in Vaison Ventoux Provence.

In Africa, Christmas was celebrated in bright sunshine, with handcrafted decorations, music, laughter and traditional dishes shared with family and neighbours. In Germany, the Advent period was marked by illuminated Christmas markets, Advent calendars and traditions like Saint Nicholas. We spent warm moments preparing presents and making gingerbread houses (Lebkuchenhaus). Here in France, I’ve discovered local and Provençal traditions such as Saint Barbara’s wheat, midnight mass and the thirteen desserts, which add a unique touch. The markets, cots and carols make this time of year even more special. I love passing on this cultural mix of sunny, snowy and Provençal Christmases to my children. For us, Christmas remains a celebration that unites, reinvents and preserves the warmth, joy and sharing of family life.