Arranging the Nativity scene is a popular custom associated with the French Christmas season. During Christmas, nearly every home in the country displays a Nativity scene or creche which is the center of Christmas celebrations for families. Little clay figures called "santons" or "little saints" are placed in the creche. The "santons" are made by craftsmen in the south of France throughout the year. Throughout the Christmas season, the figures are sold at annual Christmas fairs in Marseille and Aix. (theholidayspot.com)
Here in the USA, the figurines in the manger are made from plastic, resin or, if they are really old or expensive, clay or porcelain. In France, 'santons' are handmade and can be found in most French homes, either in a manger or village scene for the holidays. Watch this video to get an idea of what these figurines look like and how they are made.
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