Photograph by Sharon Santoni
Easter, known as Pâques in French, is a sacred time of the year – not just religiously, but also culturally in France. The charm of the spring holiday is encapsulated in its rich traditions, delicious recipes, and creative decor.
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Often considered the most important Christian holiday, France, with its deep-rooted Catholic heritage, observes it with great reverence mixed with expert-level creativity. While some of the French Easter traditions are similar to the celebrations of other cultures around the world, there are a few unique practices that you may want to consider incorporating into your own spring celebrations.
Read on to learn more about typical French traditions, try your hand at classic French spring dishes, and find inspiration for Easter decor à la française.
French Easter Traditions
Easter Bells
Instead of the Easter Bunny, France’s most unique (and quirky!) tradition is the “Cloche Volante” (Flying Bells). Church bells in France stop ringing from the Thursday before Easter until Easter Sunday. So, legend has it that during this silent period, the bells fly to Rome to be blessed by the Pope! On Easter morning, the bells return, ringing joyously to announce the resurrection and the end of Lent, bringing with them chocolates and gifts for the children.
Easter Egg Hunts
The return of the Easter Bells gave rise to the tradition of Easter egg hunts, or “Chasse aux Œufs.” This beloved activity for children is often organized in gardens, parks, and village squares all around the country. Children search for hidden chocolate eggs, rabbits, and other treats that the Easter Bells have left for them.
Decorating Easter Trees
Some regions in France celebrate Easter by decorating branches of trees or shrubs with colorful eggs, ribbons, and ornaments. This tradition, known as “L’arbre de Pâques,” adds a touch of springtime beauty to French country homes and gardens.
French Chocolatiers for Easter
French chocolatiers are renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship, and every year, they create unique and extraordinary Easter collections. These chocolate creations often feature beautifully crafted chocolate eggs, bunnies, and other whimsical shapes, adorned with intricate designs and filled with delectable surprises. Check out some of our favorites from last year here!
Classic French Dishes for Easter
In addition to the classic main dishes like lamb, spring vegetables, and deviled eggs, we have plenty of classic and modern French recipes for a perfect spring meal available right here on our website. (You can also find a full French Easter menu in our March/April 2024 magazine.)
For breakfast, infuse a little luxury into your morning with this recipe for Truffle Scrambled Eggs created by a chef at a restaurant in Richerenches – a town that hosts an annual truffle festival. You could also mix up a hearty Vegetable Quiche topped with Bacon as American expat Cat Bude shared with us in her cookbook French Kitchen Lessons.
To serve with your lamb at the main meal, check out this recipe for a side of French style peas using seasonal wild garlic. You can also offer a delectable asparagus tart that will look so beautiful you almost might not want to eat it!
Finally, for dessert it’s best to go fresh and light to follow the hearty spring meal. But that certainly doesn’t mean you can sacrifice decadent taste! We suggest making the centerpiece of the dessert table this Berry Layer Cake with Spring Flowers. On the side, you can have individual servings of classic vanilla crème brûlée and fresh strawberries with cream.
Recommendations for French Easter Decor
French Easter decor is elegant, simple, and typically features a nod to nature. Here are some recommendations to bring a touch of French charm to your Easter celebrations.
Elegant Table Settings
Set a beautiful Easter table with fine antique tableware, crystal glasses, and gorgeous tablecloths or placemats that make a statement. Incorporate pastel colors and floral patterns and add decorative touches like napkin rings adorned with small flowers or detailed knife rests with Easter themes. Dive deeper into the art of effortless French table settings for Easter here.
Spring Flowers and Easter Wreaths
Adorn your space with fresh spring flowers such as daffodils, tulips, and lilies. These vibrant blooms symbolize renewal and add a cheerful ambiance that honors and celebrates the season. You can also craft springtime wreaths using natural materials such as twigs, moss, and fresh flowers. Hang them on doors or windows to welcome guests.
Hand-painted Eggs
Decorate eggs with intricate hand-painted designs. Use traditional motifs such as flowers, birds, and geometric patterns. These artistic eggs can be displayed in bowls, laid across the dining table, or hung from branches to create stunning centerpieces. Check out MFCH Founder Sharon Santoni’s recent creation featuring hand-painted blue and green blooms!
Easter in France is a celebration that beautifully blends religious significance, cultural traditions, delectable cuisine, and enchanting decor. As you plan your egg hunts, Easter gatherings, and springtime decor, consider looking to the French for unique inspiration!