12/29/2025
Un Naulet - An Acadian Christmas Tradition: a cookie for your godchild
Many Acadian traditions can be found around Christmas celebrations. A lesser known tradition is the naulet or aulet. The naulet is a cookie presented by a godparent to their godchild. It is basically a simple cookie, usually in the shape of a person. The godparent prepares and gives this special gift to the child that they have been chosen to care for should something happen to the parents. Godparents were chosen with care and it was not simply a symbolic role to play in the young person’s life. The naulet represents the recognition of this significant relationship. Before the American Santa Claus arrived in Acadie, the naulet was one of the only gifts children received. Traditions helped forge strong, cohesive Acadian communities.
Are you a godparent? Why not present your godchild with a naulet this Christmas? If you grew up with this tradition, share your naulet stories in the comments. Better yet, prepare a naulet for your godchild. Make a simple sugar cookie dough or a white pastry and fashioned into the shape of a person. You can decorate with raisins.
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