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Brochures

Taste christmas traditions
in Alsace

Christmas in Alsace is all about magical atmospheres, twinkling lights and unique flavours! Here, the festive season rhymes with tradition, and each speciality tells a story that can be told in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Let yourself be tempted by this tasty journey through a region that puts delicious treats at the heart of the festive season.

Secret recipes

The Bredalas:
tiny christmas delights

Bredalas, also called bredele or bredle, are small biscuits made by families at the start of Advent. Each family has its own secret recipes, passed down from generation to generation. Flavored with cinnamon, anise, almonds or chocolate, they come in a multitude of shapes and flavors. Bredalas are given as gifts to loved ones or enjoyed during wakes.

Family observing old crafts
glasses of hot chocolate
Christmas brioche

The Manalas:
the star of St. Nicholas' day

The Manala, or Mannele, is a brioche in the shape of a little man, traditionally prepared for Saint Nicholas' Day, on December 6th. Soft and slightly sweet, these delicious figures delight young and old alike. Manalas can be eaten for breakfast, as a snack or even for dinner and are often paired with hot chocolate and clementines. To enjoy these delights, visit one of our partner bakeries!

red or white?

Mulled wine:
elixir of Christmas markets

It is impossible to talk about Christmas in Alsace without mentioning mulled wine. Whether red or white, this drink is prepared with Alsacian wine, sugar, spices such as cinnamon and cloves, as well as citrus zest. Its scents perfume the Christmas markets, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. To be enjoyed while strolling through the markets or comfortably seated at home, mulled wine is the ideal ally to warm up and savor the moment.

hot wine
Joël Halbardier - brewer of the Brasserie artisanale St Alphonse, which serves a beer
Holiday foam

Christmas beer:
a festive brewing tradition

In Alsace, Christmas beer is a well-established tradition. Every year, local breweries are crafting unique recipes to celebrate the holidays. These ephemeral beers, often amber and spicy, offer rich and warm aromas. Eagerly awaited, Christmas beer is ideal to accompany festive dishes or simply to be enjoyed with friends at aperitif time. Do not hesitate to visit our craft breweries to discover their creations and share a friendly moment.

Photos © B. Salmanski / ADT