A French Christmas celebrated in Cavan

For Freddy Dennis, Christmas has always been steeped in two things: family and food. Though he now calls Cavan home, the season still carries the unmistakable elegance and warmth of his French heritage - long meals, classic flavours, and laughter shared across generations.

“Christmas for me is truly a family occasion,” he says. “Everything begins in the kitchen with my mum. She’s the chef in charge, always has been. I still love cooking beside her. It’s where the magic happens.”

In France, the celebrations start on the evening of the 24th, when families settle in for a special Christmas Eve meal, followed by another long, indulgent lunch on the 25th. Freddie’s family continues this tradition today.

“There’s always so much food,” he says, laughing. “It’s all rooted in the French classics I grew up with, but we always add a bit of a refined, modern twist. Christmas is about sharing, enjoying those flavours together, and finding joy in the occasion.”

The Dennis family table typically begins with warm canapés, often smoked mackerel, followed by two elegant starters. The main course might be salmon served with a smooth velouté sauce, followed by a leisurely salad and selection of cheeses. Dessert is never rushed, and a rich brownie mousse may appear before the final ritual of coffee and sweet petits fours.

Working as Lakeland Dairies’ Executive Chef Shares for the past decade, one unlikely tradition has found its way into the family celebrations: Christmas crackers. “They aren’t French at all,” Freddie admits.

“But about 15 years ago I brought a few home, and that was it, they became part of the celebration. Now we couldn’t imagine Christmas without them.”