Is there a better place to be at Christmas time than Paris? Although snow does not usually arrive in Paris until February, if it comes at all, the city makes up for the non-White Christmas elsewhere. Historic landmarks are adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, one can shop in some of the world's finest stores, and eat some of the world's best food. And did I mention the wine?
If you can't get away for a weekend in Paris between now and Christmas (I certainly can't), this playlist may be the next best thing. It features fourteen classic Christmas songs and carols, but sung completely in French. You will instantly recognize the melodies, but the French lyrics will help transport you.
The cathedrals of France are packed for midnight mass on Christmas Eve, and after mass, families celebrate with the Reveillon (the waking), an expansive late-night feast. It can include oysters, lobster, foie gras, wild game, escargot, turkey, chestnuts, loads of desserts and more, all washed down with champagne.
If you're feeling really inspired you can prepare a French feast, and host your own "Reveillon".
Joyeux Noël
A French Christmas Playlist:
1. Les Anges Dans Nos Campagnes - Les Petits Chanteurs Du Mont-Royal
2. Entre Le Boeuf Et L'ane Gris - Vienna Choir Boys
3. Il Est Ne Le Divin Enfant - André Chiasson
4. Adeste Fideles - Les Petits Chanteurs Du Mont-Royal
5. Minuit Chretien - Nana Mouskouri
6. Jésus, Que Ma Joie Demeure (Jesus, Joy Of Man's Desiring) - Various Artists
7. Le Sommeil De Penfant Jesus - Les Petits Chanteurs Du Mont-Royal
8. Tout Le Ciel Reluit - André Chiasson
9. Bring A Torch, Jeannette, Isabelle (Un Flambeau, Jeannette, Isabella) - Kathleen Battle
10. Petit Papa Noel - Roberto Alagna
11. Nouvelle Agréable - Various Artists
12. Venez Pasteurs - Les Petits Chanteurs Du Mont-Royal
13. Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming (Es Ist Ein' Ros' Entsprungen) - Kathleen Battle