My wonderful neighbors who I affectionately refer to as “the boys” are actually outstanding men who have become like family to me. They have been encouraging, funny, helpful and kind during my first three months in France. I simply would not be as happy here without them. I’m not sure I would still be here at all.
On Saturday they offered to take me to a few towns in Normandy that really do up their Christmas lights. I was game as I have been a little underwhelmed by the decor in my immediate area. The French are more practical than my American counterparts and very few homes are decorated. There are very few wreaths, no candles in the windows and few twinkle lights to be found. This probably reflects prudence around the energy crisis but it is definitely different from what I’ve grown used to in Maine.
We went off to Beauchene which is a small village about 40 minutes from St. Denis de Gastines. Apparently a few decades ago there was an electrician living in the village who envisioned lighting it up at Christmas. This is the 30th year that it has been decorated. We arrived at the foot of a hill absolutely covered in lights. At the top was a beautiful church fully adorned in cascading white lights. It was glorious.
We got out of our car, and began walking on a lit path that takes you past little displays of lights depicting Santa, cozy fireplaces and the constellations of the zodiac. We arrived at the church which had stained glass windows lit from within. There were sweet ivy garlands hanging across the pews and trees all lit in a winter scene in the center. There was a tree where folks were invited to write out a tag that had a wish or prayer they hoped for this holiday season.
The guys were disappointed that the Brioche hut was closed. Apparently part of the experience includes buying some lovely bread to nibble at as you walk. We meandered down the front of the church past different light shows and made our way to the bar at the base of the hill. There we found hot cocoa, mulled wine, brioche and sausage sandwiches. They even had a brocante set up with a mix of new and old items.
After having a snack we drove to Mantilly which had a smaller but charming display. There were lit Christmas trees lining the main street and buildings were decorated with white lights. In the park were several light scenes depicting fishing, pear gathering and distilling (what the region is famous for) and other holiday items. We had a little fun taking pictures where we superimposed ourselves into the light scenes. It was too good to not do.
There is handy little map that shows people what villages in the region are decorated for the season. Next year, I hope to travel to a few more villages and show my kids the trail of illumination!