Find out how the French celebrate Easter in France; customs, food and family fun.
French Easter traditions
One of the biggest Easter traditions in France is the 'easter bells', les cloches de Pâques. All over France, on the Thursday before Easter, church bells across France are silenced and remain silent until Easter Sunday. Legend has it that the bells fly to Rome to be blessed by the Pope and, on their way back scatter Easter eggs into people's gardens. The bells would then ring on Easter Sunday to announce the Resurrection of Christ and the delivery of Easter eggs! Families would then spend Easter Sunday hunting for eggs in their gardens.
What do the French eat on Easter Sunday?
No French celebration would be complete without indulging in delicious foods, and Easter is no exception. The most popular dish for this time of year is the agneau pascal, slow-cooked lamb roasted with provençal herbs, cumin, garlic and olive oil, pâté à la viande, an iconic meat pie, buttery brioche de Pâques, Easter brioche with colourful sprinkles and, of course, no Easter table would be complete without the indulgent chocolat de Pâques, Easter chocolates.
Easter events in France
Throughout the weekend, villages and towns across France gather for festive parades, concerts, and fairs, from vibrant street markets showcasing artisanal crafts to lively Easter processions featuring ornate floats and costumed characters.
Joyeuses Pâques
As you can see, Easter is a wonderful time to visit the beautiful country of France with lots going on to get involved in. If you are lucky enough to be visiting, have a great time and Joyeuses Pâques!
