Paris for Christmas Vacations
Posted October 17, 2008 by:
Comments(0)Celebrate Christmas in Paris
When visiting Paris in the festive season you might notice many new traditions mingled with older ones. Christmas time in Paris is still a very religious event with Nativity Scenes all around, Midnight Masses and gathering of family and friends. You will also find that the department stores are lined with bright and festive lights.
Historical Traditions still done today
In the past children put their shoes by the fire so Father Christmas or Santa Claus would leave them toys. This is still done today and the only real thing to have changed is the type of fireplace the shoes are next too. Nativity Scenes have been used through out time as well, with the birth of Jesus being the centerpiece, and through out time the only real change is now you might find a tiny Santa in the scene. Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve is also a very real tradition that has traveled throughout out the ages with now primarily parents and adults attending.
Where to go and what to see during Christmas in Paris
When deciding where to visit and what to see you want to go through the streets of the bigger department stores and see the vast array of lights on display. Many stores in Paris are lit brightly in preparation of the holiday and you will find that no matter how big or small the store each will go all out.
Though there is no black Friday in Paris you will know that Christmas is there by the little stands popping up all around with specialty items for the holiday season only. The stands will have anything from holiday decorations to handmade gifts for family and friends. You will also notice some of the more commercial Christmas look and feel in Paris but the Old World Charm here will bring you a warm feeling no matter where you are.
What to do for Christmas Eve
When staying in Paris on Christmas Eve you will find that many will be spending the evening in Midnight Mass. This is one tradition that has been around for centuries and should not be missed. Spending the evening listening to the choir, hearing passages from the bible and watching the nativity scene come to life make any Christmas Eve special.
When staying in Paris at Christmas you want to remember that this is a peak tourist time and the prices can go up, but being thrifty and planning ahead can make all difference. Oh and do not forget to bring some extra cash for those impromptu gifts you will find and buy, for example unlocked cell phones.
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