The Christmas tree tradition

Last night we gathered at the little square outside the local Auberge (a simple Inn/restaurant-hotel, often found in the center of a village) to listen to the school choir sing French Christmas Carols and to dress the big village Christmas tree.
The tradition is that the youngest students from school (from age 4) make Christmas decorations in school which this evening get hung on the big tree to spread joy and Christmas spirit. It is a nice and rather quick event. People show up with their children at 5.30 pm and ten minutes later the singing starts. The tree is lighting up the dark evening and the sweet voices from the children makes it all magical.

After the singing everyone mingles while having Gluhwein and farmer's bread which is offered for free from the commune outside the library. And a row of Swiss chocolate is served for the kids to their delight.

It is a nice and simple event and another 30 minutes later we returned home for the lasagna waiting for us in the oven. It has taken a few years to settle in and learn the traditions they have here in the Canton Vaud of Switzerland. And this one is one of my favorites.
Kärlek
Annette