The arrival of the shepherds Allauch 24 December

For a traditional provençal start to Christmas make your way to Allauch on the border of Marseille to see the shepherds leading their sheep from the hills. It's a performance in Provençale by volunteers, though the sheep probably dont get a choice. If you're driving dont try to park in old village because that's where it all happens. You can also take part in midnight mass via a big screen outside the church, there's not room for everyone inside. It Starts at 10:30pm but get there early to avoid the traffic.