French Christmas Carols

French Christmas carols have been part of the holidays since the 16th century. A few are translated into English, but most are sung proudly in French.

“Chants de Noel”, or French Christmas carols, provide the soundtrack for a variety of celebrations. France is predominately Catholic, so many Christmas celebrations are centered in the church. But, on December 6th, St. Nicolas may be bring treats and gifts. Families attend Mass on Christmas Eve, and celebrate though Christmas Day.

Here are a few songs you may hear during mass or performed by carolers.

A bright, happy tune that encourages you to follow the chorus of angels to Jesus. This a capella choir demonstrates.

This reverent 15th century carol has the Christ child acknowledging the Lord. Here’s a small sample.

The singer asks the shepherd, “Where are you coming from?” and the shepherd recalls the miracle in the stable. Listen to a snippet sung by children.

This lively carol celebrates the birth of the Divine Child, and expresses that we must herald the arrival with music and song. Take a listen.

This traditional French Christmas carol was eventually translated to “Angels We Have Heard on High”. It sounds even prettier in its original form, as demonstrated here.

While not a traditional French Christmas song, it's a popular holiday favorite. The singer admits he wasn’t very good, but asks Little Santa Claus to forgive him and bring presents anyway. This version, made famous by French cabaret singer Tino Rossi in 1946, captures the lighthearted tone.

This solemn carol announces the arrival of the new king. Listen to a sample from a men’s chorus here.

As you review different lists of French Christmas Carols, you may notice a few familiar tunes. Many holiday songs popularized in English are enjoyed throughout the world, and it’s interesting to hear the slight changes to lyrics or melody, but be able to hum along anyway.

While this melody is associated with the English carol “O Holy Night”, the French lyrics request that we honor “the redeemer”. If you’re fluent in French, you’ll notice the subtle differences in this version.

You’ll notice familiar lyrics and melody in this French sample of “Silent Night”. Review the lyrics and listen to a chorale performance here.

You’ve probably heard this 16th century tune many times, but never known it was a popular French Christmas song. Here is an instrumental version performed by Loreena McKennitt.

This rendition of “Jingle Bells” in French is one that children would love to learn to sing. Take a listen.

There are a number of CDs featuring French Christmas Carols. If you want to celebrate authentic French holiday customs, add these collections to your festivities:

• Es Petits Chanteurs features a wide variety of French holiday songs and other classics.
• En la Fete de Noel - O Holy Night is performed by many artists.
• A French Christmas is a CD by American singer CC Couch.
• Noel, Noel!: Noels Francais/French Christmas Music (1200-1600) features a wide selection of classic French carols with a medieval tone.
• Chants de Noel is a collection of popular Christmas songs by French artists.

You may also want to download traditional French Christmas carols from Songpeddler.

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