In France, New Year’s Day or 'Jour de l’An' is a public holiday celebrated with great enthusiasm. It is the first day of the year in the Gregorian calendar which is used in France like the rest of the world. This day is marked with festive spirit, family gatherings, lavish meals and exchanging of gifts. Some people also choose to attend special church services.
The celebration of New Year's Day in France actually begins the night before, on New Year's Eve, known as 'la Saint-Sylvestre'. It involves dining on a sumptuous meal, called a réveillon, which is a special feast that brings families together. Traditionally, people also consume champagne and foie gras to mark the festivities. As the clock strikes midnight, the sky is alight with spectacular firework displays, celebrating the arrival of the new year.
New Year's Day in France isn't just about celebrations, it's also about spreading good luck and happiness. French people follow a traditional custom called 'les étrennes' where they exchange gifts and cards, wishing each other prosperous new year. It is also a common tradition to kiss under the mistletoe on New Year’s Day, a tradition more commonly associated with Christmas in other countries. The first week of January is also when the French people enjoy the 'Galette des Rois' or King's cake, as a way to celebrate the Epiphany.