Merry Parties are not done yet !

Hello !

Hope you had a great Christmas break (I know I had !) and Happy come back to the exiting life of a UEA student !

As I am sure, you all had your share of party during the last two week of December but believe it or not it is not the end for lots of countries abroad.

If I take the example of a "random" country, let's say France, you will be surprise to learn than 3 more celebrations take place before Easter.

1) First Sunday of January is called the "Epiphany" : to celebrate the arrival of the 3 Wise King. This is a family gathering. Although it is not public holiday, the habit of the King Cake is still very strong. On that day, we all buy a King Cake (Frangipane, Chocolate Chip one or Apple flavour) and the one who gets the part with the trinket (or fêve) inside get a crown but has to buy the next King Cake for the next day or Week, and this goes on until All bought one.

2) Chandeleur : On the 1st week end of February, France celebrates the "Chandeleur". This is an ancient Roman celebration of the end of winter and the renewal of fertility. Though, the symbol has been long forgotten, French families still comes on that day to make and eat CREPES !!

The recipe is pretty easy and It can be the base to add anything 

(from adding bacon to spray sugar or Nutella !) 

3) Mardi Gras or the Carnival Season : 47 days before Easter, Cities throw huge parties with bands and chars (on Arlecain, flower or anything) where people gather around dressed up to party and throw confettis at each other. We celebrate the last day before the "Careme", which is the 40 days Christian fasting.

& we're not the only one : Chinese has its wonderful New Year or Spring Festival for example.

So keep it up, Summer is almost there !