A common way to wish someone a happy Easter in French is by simply saying: Joyeuses Pâques!
In this article, you’ll learn more about Easter and how the French people celebrate this chocolate-filled day.
Why are there flying bells everywhere in France during Easter?
Just as the Easter Bunny is a common symbol in places like the United States and Germany, flying bells are a classic Easter symbol in France.
The tradition of “flying bells” at Easter is especially popular in France and Belgium. The story goes that church bells stop ringing on Good Friday to mourn Jesus’s death, and people say the bells “fly” to Rome to be blessed by the Pope. On Easter Sunday, the bells return and ring out in celebration of Jesus’s resurrection. As they come back, they are said to scatter eggs and sweets for children to find.
If you are in France during this time, you will likely hear the church bells ringing especially loudly on Easter morning. You may also notice festive Easter decorations in shop windows, such as chocolate bells, eggs, and other spring-themed displays. Some towns hang colorful ornaments or set up special Easter displays in public areas, and bakeries often fill their windows with seasonal treats.
What are other symbols of Easter in France?
Other symbols of Easter include:
- Eggs represent new life. They have been linked to new beginnings and rebirth for centuries, both in ancient spring festivals and in Christian tradition. In Christianity, eggs symbolize the empty tomb and the promise of new life after death.
- The rabbit is a symbol of fertility. The Easter Bunny comes from old folklore and stands for fertility and abundance, showing the renewal of life in spring.
- The Paschal lamb represents Jesus Christ. It has strong biblical roots tied to the Jewish festival of Passover. In Christianity, the lamb stands for sacrifice and redemption, symbolizing Jesus as the “Lamb of God” who gave his life for humanity.
During Easter, you’ll see chocolates shaped like these symbols. It’s very common to find chocolate eggs, rabbits, and bells in shops. You should also look for special Easter treats like “agneau pascal” (a lamb-shaped cake popular in Alsace), “brioches de Pâques” (soft brioche often enjoyed at breakfast), and “nid de Pâques” (nest cake decorated with small chocolate eggs).
Who should you buy and offer chocolate to?
In France, buying Easter chocolates is mostly a family tradition focused on children. Parents and grandparents buy chocolates for kids, who then search for them. Adults in families sometimes give each other chocolates too, but these gifts are usually small and symbolic, not as fancy as those for children. Friends or coworkers might also exchange chocolates, but this is less common than at Christmas.
If you are an international student living in France, it is always appropriate to offer chocolates to your friends or your host family as a friendly gesture. If you wish to give chocolates to a professor or someone in a more formal relationship, choose a modest box and offer it as a simple token of appreciation rather than a personal gift. Offering chocolates is seen as a thoughtful act, but not required, so do not feel uncomfortable if you choose not to.
Where can you buy Easter chocolates?
Whether you want artisanal chocolates or something more convenient, you will find options for every taste and budget:
- Supermarkets: French supermarkets have a wide range of chocolates, from well-known brands like Lindt, Ferrero, and Milka to store brands at good prices. Many people buy Lindt Lindor eggs for their creamy fillings and Ferrero Rocher assortments for gifts. Kinder Surprise eggs are especially popular with children because they include a small toy.
- Specialized chains: If you want a mix of artisanal quality and convenience, chocolate chains like Jeff de Bruges or De Neuville have a great selection of Easter chocolates. These brands are popular in France because they offer high-quality chocolates at affordable prices, making them accessible to more people.
- Pastry shops: Shops like Pierre Hermé make Easter chocolates that combine new ideas with tradition. Some of his bestsellers are chocolate-covered almonds and hazelnuts, along with his famous chocolate bonbons filled with unique ganaches.
- Chocolatiers: France has some of the world’s best chocolatiers. Thanks to social media, the creations of Cédric Grolet and Amaury Guichon have become very popular, and people now line up at their stores to buy chocolate and see their impressive chocolate sculptures.
Participate in “La Chasse aux Œufs” (Easter Egg Hunts)
Easter egg hunts, called “la chasse aux œufs,” are a favorite activity throughout France. They are a fun way to experience French culture, practice your French in real life, and enjoy a happy day out.
Many local communities organize egg hunts and activities for adults too. For example, the BNF in Paris often holds an egg hunt, while Galeries Lafayette Hausmann offers workshops for kids to decorate eggs. To find a local event, check your city or town’s official website.
To learn more about life in France and the French culture, make sure to check out our blog.
