Noël Très Français

We’re all set now. Daniel Brondi, French professor at Cal State Fullerton, walked us through a fascinating evening of “Noel” in France at the Alliance Francaise de Pasadena Friday evening, from the table setting, to the entrée, to the Buche de Noel, (Busssshhhhhh…,!” he reminded us.) In his witty and enlightening way, Brondi detailed a tres magnifique French end-of-the-year party dans le style français.  Tous en Français, mind you.

For the school’s holiday lecture selection, Brondi explained the history of the French version of Christmas and then treated the gathered audience to a variety of Buche de Noel (“Christmas Log”) treatments.” As Brondi explained, the cake honors the ancient tradition of French fireplace logs brought in from the cold on Christmas Eve, sprinkled with wine, salt and oil and lit while prayers were said. With a delicious sparkling wine, Pasadena became Paris.

Bring on the French. We’re ready.

Alliance Francaise de Pasadena is at 34 E Union St, Pasadena. (626) 683-3774.