Thanksgiving might be an important November holiday in the US, but here in France the release of this year's Beaujolais Nouveau at the end of the month is the anticipated event. It's a huge celebration here - at least in places where wine is sold (markets and grocery stores). In my opinion it's just an excuse for a party. It certainly cannot be because of its taste. The wine is bottled and on the market just weeks after being harvested, so there is not much flavor or complexity to it. But the release marks the start of the holiday season, so it's associated with a fun and festive atmosphere. Just like how Thanksgiving in the US headlines the Christmas season, decorations start appearing in earnest throughout the Paris just as the new wine arrives on the scene. The holiday lights start popping up on trees and lamp posts. Christmas trees and poinsettias are available for purchase. In fact, the market was extra festive last Saturday. There was even a special little game to celebrate the Beaujolais. With each purchase at the market, we had a chance to win a bottle of wine. Chances were good because I think everyone who received the scratch off ticket won a free bottle. I wasn't that excited about the Beaujolais Nouveau, but I was not going to refuse the bottle of wine that Thomas won. Nothing improves the taste of the Beaujolais Nouveau than getting it for free.But with all this seasonal decorations appearing everywhere, I feel emotionally conflicted. It seems too soon. I mean it is not even Thanksgiving yet. The Christmas trees for sale in the market seems like it's too early. Especially because there are still fall colors in the parks, and we still haven't had our turkey dinner yet.
Thomas collecting his bottle of wine that he wine.
Stores are decorated for the holiday season. A bit mixed up with pumpkins along with stars and silvery branches. But they're already selling Christmas trees at the market.
