FRANCE 24’s culture editor Eve Jackson takes viewers on a festive journey to the heart of France’s Provence region in a special programme exploring the enchanting Christmas traditions of Aix-en-Provence. This exclusive holiday show brings to life the region’s rich cultural heritage, focusing on two of its most treasured customs: the delicious tradition of the 13 desserts and the art of making santons, or clay figurines.
The programme features Michelin-starred chef Mathias Dandine, who welcomes arts24 into his kitchen to explore Provence’s beloved 13 desserts tradition. Chef Dandine shares the history and symbolism behind this iconic festive spread, while preparing a modern reinterpretation of the dish exclusively for you. From delicate calissons and nougat to seasonal fruits and nuts, viewers will be treated to the flavours, stories and passion that define a Provençal Christmas feast.
Arts24 also takes you behind the scenes inside the renowned Fouque workshop, where the fourth-generation family of santon makers continue a tradition dating back over three centuries. These handcrafted clay figurines, representing characters from Provençal life, play a central role in nativity scenes across France and beyond.
Viewers will meet Catherine Fouque, who shares the history of santons, her family’s legacy and the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each figurine.
Filmed amid the twinkling lights and festive markets of Aix-en-Provence, this holiday special captures the spirit of Christmas in one of France’s most charming cities.
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