Passover - The Festival of Freedom

Passover's eight days transform French Jewish homes as families clear chametz (leavened products) and prepare for the seder, Judaism's most widely observed ritual meal. The festival's themes of liberation and memory resonate particularly in France, with its revolutionary heritage and complex Jewish history.

Seder Traditions, French Style

French seders blend universal Passover traditions with local customs and contemporary consciousness. The seder plate might include Camargue salt alongside traditional elements, while wine selections showcase French vintages meeting kosher requirements.

"Four cups of wine at a French seder is serious business," jokes sommelier Daniel Roth. "We debate Bordeaux versus Burgundy for which blessing. It's very French to intellectualize wine, even ritual wine."

Many French Jewish families add an orange to the seder plate, symbolizing inclusion of women and LGBTQ+ Jews. Others include olives for peace or fair-trade chocolate for social justice. These additions reflect French Jewry's engagement with contemporary issues.

The Search for Kosher-for-Passover Products

Preparing for Passover in France requires planning. While Paris and other major cities offer specialized Passover products, smaller communities struggle. Online ordering has revolutionized Passover shopping, though many prefer supporting local Jewish businesses.

"Finding kosher-for-Passover cheese that meets French standards is our annual challenge," admits Nicole Dreyfus, who organizes communal orders in Grenoble. "We want to maintain kashrut without sacrificing French culinary expectations."

Freedom Narratives

French seders often connect the Exodus story to contemporary freedom struggles. Discussions might reference French Resistance fighters, refugees seeking asylum, or global human rights. The Haggadah's instruction to see oneself as personally freed from Egypt takes particular meaning in a nation founded on revolutionary ideals.

"We always discuss what freedom means today," explains educator Esther Bensaïd. "For my grandparents who survived the Shoah, for Maghrebi Jews who left everything, for converts choosing Judaism – everyone has their Egypt."