Christmas in Lyon - Gatherings (3)

Christmas Eve Champagne

We’ve probably mentioned that we have become “regulars” at our corner boulangerie/sandwicherie. It’s a great place to have our café au lait, fresh pastries, freshly squeezed orange juice (for David), and freshly made smoothie with seasonal fruit (for Anna). We typically also get a loaf of freshly baked bread (they make a variety of choices) often along with some of their dessert pastries. (We are REALLY going to miss this when we’re back in the states!)



Over the past months we’ve developed a friendly relationship with the proprietor, his wife, and also their helper. We exchange comments about the local news, our families, and a variety of other things. And, every-so-often, the owner will ask us to “try” something or will slip “samples” into our sack along with our purchases. Delicious food, pleasant folks, and relaxed atmosphere – what a perfect way to start the day!


Around Tuesday or so before Christmas, the proprietor invited us to come for a little Christmas celebration at 2:30PM on Friday. He reminded us again on Friday morning and mentioned champagne. So we headed over Friday afternoon. As we crossed the street (that’s how far away this is), the helper saw us and said “tout de suite!” to encourage us to hurry. When we entered the place we saw trays and trays of both sweet and savory appetizers. And, they just kept coming – fresh from the oven. The champagne flowed as promised, and that kept coming, too. So who were the others there? Neighboring merchants, suppliers, and a few customers like us. It was both delicious and delightful and a great way to enjoy Christmas Eve.