Public Holidays in France
- Holidays marked with ◎ are movable feasts whose dates change every year based on the date of Easter.
- France does not have a system of substitute holidays (observed holidays) when a public holiday falls on a weekend.
France Public Holidays Calendar
Overview of Public Holidays in France
- Good Friday, Easter Monday
According to Christian tradition, these days commemorate the crucifixion and subsequent resurrection of Jesus Christ. Good Friday is observed as a day of mourning for the crucifixion, while Easter celebrates the resurrection. The following day, Easter Monday, is also observed as a public holiday in many countries.
In France, Good Friday is an official public holiday only in the Alsace-Moselle region. - Victory in Europe Day (WWII)
This day commemorates the formal conclusion of hostilities in Europe during World War II, marking the date in 1945 when Germany signed the unconditional act of surrender. - Ascension Day
According to Christian belief, this day commemorates the bodily ascension of the resurrected Jesus Christ into heaven in the presence of his disciples. The feast is traditionally celebrated on the 40th day of Easter. - Pentecost Monday
Observed the day after Pentecost (Whit sunday), this holiday occurs 50 days after Easter. In Christian tradition, it commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples following the resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ. - National Day (Bastille Day)
The national day of France commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison on July 14, 1789, a pivotal event that marked the beginning of the French Revolution. It is commonly referred to as "Bastille Day" in English-speaking countries. - Assumption of Mary
A major Catholic feast day commemorating the departure of the Virgin Mary from earthly life and the assumption of her body and soul into heaven. - All Saints' Day
A Christian solemnity dedicated to honoring and remembering all saints and martyrs, both known and unknown. - Armistice Day (WWI)
This day marks the anniversary of the armistice agreement signed between Germany and the Allies on November 11, 1918, effectively ending the hostilities of World War I. - Saint Stephen's Day (Boxing Day)
A Christian feast day honoring Saint Stephen, regarded as the first Christian martyr. Due to historical ties to Germany, this holiday is observed exclusively as a regional public holiday in the Alsace-Moselle region.
French National Flag & Anthem
National Flag
The national flag of France is widely known as the "Tricolore." Its three vertical bands of blue, white, and red are traditionally said to represent the national motto, "Liberty, Equality, Fraternity," or alternatively, the historic colors of the French monarchy combined with those of the City of Paris.
National Anthem
The national anthem of France is "La Marseillaise."
Originally composed as a revolutionary military march, the theme of its lyrics centers on a call to arms for citizens to defend the nation against invading forces.