Despite the recent violence across France, CMS Missionary Sandra King says the festive French are determined Strasbourg will remain known as the "Christmas Capital' of Europe, keeping alive a glimmering reminder of the gospel.
Strasbourg is best known for its Christmas markets, which have been an annual event since 1570.
"You can buy almost anything you can possibly imagine to hang on a Christmas tree," says Sandra.
"Tinsel, glass balls, wooden figurines, tin stars, peppermint sticks - anything. There are delicacies from the region, such as honey, lollies, hot wine, gingerbread and bredele [a small biscuit].”
Strasbourg's tag as the "Christmas capital' is also linked to the Christmas tree tradition which began nearby in 1521.
"Le tree, or "sapin', was hung by its point and decorated with bredele and red apples. The custom was taken to Germany in the early 1600s," says Sandra.
So is the Christian message acknowledged as part of these festivities?
Sandra says nativity scenes are being displayed in a few places around the city of Strasbourg.
"For some, this may be just a way for Strasbourg to attract the tourists and to fully accomplish its role as Christmas Capital of Europe," she says.
"But it is also an ongoing mark of the Reformation, which was widely accepted in Strasbourg. Calvin preached here and found his wife here. Martin Bucer was a pastor in a church in central Strasbourg. The printing industry blossomed here too. Christians have been faithful witnesses to Christ over the centuries in this city."
Surprisingly, says Sandra, French Protestant churches don't hold Christmas Day services. Although this year will be different - December 25 is a Sunday.
"The French Christians don't have a tradition of Christmas carols and Christmas songs. It is more the International Churches that organise Christmas Carols in the cities around France."
But Sandra says it is the most visible element of Strasbourg's festivities that is the most beautiful reminder of the gospel message behind Christmas.
"Christmas lights are everywhere, defying the dark," she says.
"Draped over streets, around lamp poles, through tree branches, along the avenues… Lights that remind me of the Light Who came into the World to save sinners - Jesus Christ."
