{"id":1381596,"date":"2026-02-17T11:34:12","date_gmt":"2026-02-17T10:34:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/haussmann.galerieslafayette.com\/de-la-gastronomia-a-la-moda-tradiciones-francesas-que-enamoran\/"},"modified":"2026-02-17T12:16:37","modified_gmt":"2026-02-17T11:16:37","slug":"french-customs-traditions-paris","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/haussmann.galerieslafayette.com\/en\/french-customs-traditions-paris\/","title":{"rendered":"French customs and traditions to know before your trip"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
This comprehensive guide explores the heart of French traditions<\/strong>, inviting you to discover why the French art de vivre remains a global fascination. From the iconic glass dome of Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann<\/strong> to the secrets of a perfect baguette, immerse yourself in the culture of a nation that treats every meal and every outfit as a work of art.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To understand modern French traditions<\/strong>, one must look back at the French culture and history<\/strong> that shaped them. The identity of France is a patchwork of local communities<\/strong>, influenced by the Reign of Louis XIV<\/strong>, the Enlightenment, and the French Revolution. This history has left behind a legacy of French values<\/strong>: Libert\u00e9, \u00c9galit\u00e9, Fraternit\u00e9<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Today, society in France<\/strong> is a sophisticated blend of heritage and modernity. While the 17th century<\/strong> established France as a beacon of the arts<\/strong>, contemporary France popular culture<\/strong> continues to evolve. Whether you are exploring the Louvre Museum<\/strong> or the Notre-Dame de<\/strong> Paris cathedral, you see the influences on art<\/strong> that make the city a constant inspiration for art enthusiasts<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n French culture<\/strong> is more than just a set of rules; it is an appreciation for the finer things in life. It is the official language of France<\/strong> spoken with precision, the ritual of the leisurely lunch<\/strong>, and the respect for artisans. At Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann<\/strong>, this culture is concentrated under one roof, where the Art Deco dome<\/strong><\/a> stands as a monument to French architectural history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The French are globally recognized for their French cuisine<\/strong>, their leading role as the fashion capital<\/strong>, and their “joie de vivre.” They are known for their commitment to quality over quantity\u2014a philosophy that applies to everything from a small gift<\/strong> for a male host<\/strong> to the selection of French wines<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n French traditional food<\/strong> is so vital that UNESCO has labeled it an “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.” The meals of the day<\/strong> are sacred, and the French family<\/strong> often gathers for long lunches<\/strong>. A wonderful example of French culinary art can be found in the restaurants of Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann<\/a><\/span>, where you can savor the very best of French cuisine in an elegant setting. With options to suit every taste, it is the perfect gourmet experience right in the heart of Paris.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The traditional French breakfast<\/strong> is typically sweet and simple. You will find a Caf\u00e9 au lait<\/strong> or a hot chocolate accompanied by crusty French breads<\/strong>. The traditional French baguette<\/strong> is the most iconic unit of French society<\/strong>; you will see French citizens<\/strong> carrying fresh loaves of bread<\/strong> daily. The Galeries Lafayette Le Gourmet, it is the perfect place to savor French essentials crafted in the traditional way: from crusty baguettes to pure-butter pastries like croissants and pains au chocolat. A true delight for the taste buds!<\/p>\n\n\n\n From region to region<\/strong>, the flavors change. In the north, you might find dishes from region<\/strong> Normandy involving heavy cream, while the south favors olive oil.<\/p>\n\n\n\n No meal is complete without the cheese course<\/strong>. With pungent French cheeses<\/strong> and slices of cheese<\/strong> from local farms<\/strong>, it is a bridge between the main course<\/strong> and traditional French desserts<\/strong>. Whether it\u2019s a delicate macaron from Ladur\u00e9e<\/a> or a mille-feuille, the pastry tradition is a core French tradition<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Looking to master French gastronomy<\/a>? Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann offers exclusive classes<\/a><\/span> with the prestigious Ferrandi Paris school. Alongside a renowned chef, step behind the stove to learn the techniques and secrets of top restaurants. A unique opportunity to cook the most iconic dishes of our culinary heritage!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Traditional celebrations in France<\/strong> follow the rhythm of the seasons and the liturgical calendar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n French Christmas<\/strong> is a time for family. On the night of December 24th, the R\u00e9veillon<\/em> feast features oysters, snails, and the B\u00fbche de No\u00ebl<\/em>. French traditions New Year<\/strong> (Saint-Sylvestre<\/em>) are often celebrated with friends at dinner parties<\/strong> involving plenty of Champagne. At Galeries Lafayette, the giant Christmas tree under the dome is a France visitor<\/strong> favorite, a true inspiration for art enthusiasts<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among the French traditions Epiphany<\/strong> is perhaps the most delicious. In January, the Galette des Rois<\/em> is shared. Inside is hidden a f\u00e8ve<\/em> (a small porcelain charm); whoever finds it is crowned king or queen for the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Mardi Gras<\/strong> is the time for carnivals and crepes. Shortly after comes April Fish<\/strong>, or Poisson d\u2019Avril<\/strong>. This is a quirky French tradition<\/strong> where children stick paper fish on the backs of unsuspecting French men<\/strong> and women<\/strong> as a prank.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Traditional French Easter<\/strong> is marked by the “flying bells” that return from Rome to drop chocolate eggs in gardens. It is a major event for French children<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Paris is the fashion capital<\/strong>, a title it has held since the 17th century<\/strong>. Traditional French clothing<\/strong> has evolved from the elaborate silks of the court to the effortless chic<\/strong> of today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While yoga pants<\/strong> might be common elsewhere, the French lifestyle<\/strong> prioritizes a “studied simplicity.” French women<\/strong> often opt for neutral colors and high-quality fabrics. At Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann<\/strong>, you can witness the latest current trends during our weekly fashion shows. <\/p>\n\n\n\n French etiquette<\/strong> is essential for a smooth experience in France. Foreigners<\/strong> sometimes feel foreigners much anxiety<\/strong> about doing the wrong thing, but the basics are simple.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Located in the Capital of Paris<\/strong>, Galeries Lafayette Haussmann<\/strong> is more than a department store; it is a living museum of French traditions<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To truly understand French food<\/strong>, why not take a class? We offer cooking classes<\/strong> with the Ferrandi school<\/a> and wine tasting<\/strong><\/a> sessions to help you distinguish between French wines<\/strong> from different regions.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFrench Traditions: A Deep Dive into Culture, Style, and Gastronomy at Galeries Lafayette<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
French Culture and History: The Foundation of Identity<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What is French culture?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What are the French known for?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
French Traditional Food: The Art of the Table<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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French Cuisine: Main Courses and Regional Flavors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Traditional French Desserts and Cheese<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Tradition in France: Festivals and Celebrations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
French Christmas and New Year<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Epiphany and the King’s Cake<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Mardi Gras and Poisson d\u2019Avril<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Traditional French Easter<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Fashion: Traditional French Clothing and the Modern Style<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The Parisian Wardrobe<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
French Manners and Etiquette: The Social Code<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Greetings and Basics<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Experience the Best of France at Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Culinary Workshops<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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