Walt Whitman French Teacher Dr. Geralde Eikenaar describes an ancient French tradition dating back to the Middle Ages of burning a log from Christmas Eve until New Year’s Day. It is said that farmers then used part of the log to attract a good harvest for the year.

Today, the tradition still lives on. But in modern times, the log burning has evolved into the tradition of making a log-shaped cake called the bûche de Noël, or Christmas log. The log cake is served alongside many other pastries during Le Réveillon, a late supper held after midnight mass on Christmas Eve. “This contest has been a tradition at Walt Whitman for 20 years now,” said Dr. Eikenaar.  "This tradition brings joy to many and adds a festive spirit to our community.”

Thank you to all of Whitman’s students who participated in this year’s Bûche de Noël Contest. And to each person who bought a raffle ticket, we truly appreciate your contribution. Students, as usual, you did an amazing job showcasing your talents and creativity!

The winners of the raffle are:

First Prize: Lillian O'Phelan

Second Prize: Sam Rodriguez

Third Prize: Porter Chetty

The winners of the Bûche de Noël 2021 Contest are:

1st Prize: Cake #6 Salma Laraki and Ismael Laraki

2nd Prize: Cake #25 Elana Denis

3rd Prize: Cake #18 Harper Garvey

Félicitations! Congratulations!

WWHS Principal, Mr. Costa, and French teacher, Dr. Eikenaar, present this year’s Bûche de Noël winners. Congratulations Salma Laraki and Ismael Laraki, Elana Denis, and Harper Garvey!