France is a land that blends Celtic, Gallo-Roman and Frankish cultures together in its culture. The term France originated during medieval Europe to identify what is now central Europe.
French society places great value in leading an elegant life. They tend to dress formally and politely for formal events, greeting others with a kiss on each cheek (bise), as well as being celebrated for their decor, art, and cuisine.
Bastille Day
Bastille Day (le quatorze juillet in French) is France’s national holiday, commemorating the storming of a military fortress and prison on July 14, 1789 that marked the start of its Revolution. This event also signaled a new political era within France itself.
On this holiday, fireworks and parades take place all across France to mark it. Paris hosts one of the oldest annual military parades ever on Champs-Elysees before President Macron and other dignitaries from around the world.
Francophiles around the globe celebrate Bastille Day by hosting dinner parties and concerts featuring French music, food and wine. Many cities with strong French heritage, like Milwaukee in Wisconsin’s Midwest region, host elaborate four-day festivals featuring Bastille storming reenactments as an elaborate way of commemorating this international holiday of French unity both historical and present.
Beaujolais Nouveau
Beaujolais Nouveau is a vibrant red wine from Beaujolais region (near Lyon). Crafted with Gamay grapes, it can be sold immediately post-harvest under vin de primeur rules.
After World War II, the wine union in Beaujolais made an unprecedented request: to be allowed to sell their wines ahead of the standard release date on December 15 – thus beginning a tradition that still continues today.
Each year, Beaujolais Nouveau is released for sale at midnight on the third Thursday in November – an occasion worth celebrating! Often celebrated among friends by drinking this fruity wine made using carbonic maceration techniques; although that taste has since dissipated with newer production methods.
April’s Fools
April Fools Day provides the French with an excuse to play practical jokes on their friends and family members, with many celebrating “April Fools'” Day as an excuse. One theory suggests it began during Pope Gregory XIII’s 16th Century change to New Year celebrations from March to January; those who continued celebrating March festivities became known as April Fools.
Celebrations vary by country; in France, Italy and French-speaking areas of Switzerland for instance, people prank their friends by sticking paper fish onto them without them realizing, then running away shouting Poisson d’avril! On the first of April in Scotland it is known as Gowkie Day because the gowk (also called cuckoo or gowkie) symbolizes folly. On Tailie Day friends play practical jokes on one another by attaching signs reading “Kick Me!” onto their backs for added comedic effect.
St. Catherine’s Day
Historically, November 25th marked Saint Catherine’s Day – an opportunity to recognize, or at least not stigmatize, single women over 25 who did not have a husband and were still known as catherinettes. At a party dedicated to Saint Catherine they received unique hats decorated in green and yellow; colors associated with her.
Saint Catherine of Alexandria attempted to convert Emperor Maximinus to Christianity but when he refused she was killed. Her name has become associated with unmarried girls over 25 and milliners/hatmakers; although France no longer observes this custom. Hatmakers however still celebrate her on her feast day!
Weddings
French wedding celebrations are known for their elaborate celebrations. After the ceremony and before dinner, it is common practice for a party known as a vin d’honneur to take place after which guests can drink champagne, enjoy canapes and cake before heading home for their evening meal.
Guest often follow newlyweds in their cars with loud car horns blaring to create an exciting spectacle at the event.
Prior to the ceremony, he collects his bride from her home. At church, children spread white ribbons across her path – an act which signifies her ability to overcome obstacles throughout married life. After the ceremony is completed, couples are presented with dragees as symbols of fertility, happiness, health and longevity.