The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

FRENCH CUSTOM (FEAST OF THE BEAN?)

I KNOW OF A FRENCH CUSTOM WHICH HAPPENS ON THE
EPIPHANY. JANUARY 6 OR SO. THE FRENCH FAMILY WOULD
BAKE A PASTRY--PIE OR CAKE, AND INSIDE THE DOUGH
THEY WOULD PUT A BEAN. WHEN IT WAS CUT (THE CAKE)
AND DIVIDED, THE PERSON WHO GOT THE PIECE WITH THE
BEAN IN IT WAS QUEEN/KING FOR THE DAY. EVERYONE
WOULD HAVE TO WAIT ON HIM/HER.

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; DETROIT

Date learned: 02-23-1972