In GraphsLong associated with imagery of the Three Wise Men, the depiction of Christmas took on a wintry turn in the 16th century. Yet the chances of seeing snow in France on December 25 have never been lower.
Warning: This article contains a harsh statistic. The average French person under the age of 33 has, unless they live at a high altitude, only experienced one white Christmas in their lifetime.
It’s not just a consequence of global warming. “Of course, there are northern countries where it snows almost every December 25,” said historian Nadine Cretin, an expert on holidays. “But, in France, that’s a myth.”
The magical landscapes that are depicted at the end of every year, whether in films, advertisements or holiday decorations, are, in fact, a charming, but deceptive cultural construction.
Christmas long represented by Bethlehem
Winter solstice celebrations date back at least to the ancient Roman festival of Saturnalia and, at that time, snow was nowhere to be seen. “Their depictions revolved around banquets, there were no outdoor scenes,” said Cretin.