Public Holidays in France 2025 – National & Regional Observances
France celebrates a number of national public holidays each year, many rooted in Christian traditions and key historical events. In addition, regions such as Alsace and Moselle have extra holidays specific to their local legal traditions. On these public holidays, many government offices, shops, and institutions close across the country.
Overview of Public Holidays in France
France has 11 official public holidays observed nationwide. These holidays generally stay fixed to their calendar dates and are not moved if they fall on a weekend. Some regions (notably Alsace and Moselle) observe two additional holidays: Good Friday and St. Stephen’s Day (December 26).
List of Public Holidays in France (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Remarks / Observance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day (Jour de l’An) | January 1 | Wednesday | Nationwide holiday |
| Good Friday (Vendredi Saint) | April 18 | Friday | Only in Alsace & Moselle regions |
| Easter Monday (Lundi de Pâques) | April 21 | Monday | Nationwide holiday |
| Labour Day (Fête du Travail) | May 1 | Thursday | Nationwide holiday |
| Victory in Europe Day (Victoire 1945) | May 8 | Thursday | Commemorates end of WWII in Europe |
| Ascension Day (L’Ascension) | May 29 | Thursday | Christian observance (40 days after Easter) |
| Whit Monday (Lundi de Pentecôte) | June 9 | Monday | Christian observance (50 days after Easter) |
| National Day / Bastille Day (Fête nationale) | July 14 | Monday | Celebrates French Revolution and national unity |
| Assumption Day (Assomption) | August 15 | Friday | Religious holiday in honor of Virgin Mary |
| All Saints’ Day (La Toussaint) | November 1 | Saturday | Honoring all saints; nationwide holiday |
| Armistice Day (Jour d’Armistice) | November 11 | Tuesday | Commemorates end of WWI |
| Christmas Day (Noël) | December 25 | Thursday | Christian holiday; nationwide |
| St Stephen’s Day (Saint Étienne) | December 26 | Friday | Only in Alsace & Moselle regions |
France does not move its public holidays if they fall on a weekend; they remain on their calendar date.
Regional Exceptions & Extra Holidays
Alsace and the Moselle department (historical German-influenced region) observe two additional holidays: Good Friday and St Stephen’s Day (Dec 26) that are not public holidays elsewhere in France.
Public Observance & Closures
On these public holidays, public services, schools, banks, many shops, and businesses typically close across the country. In regions with additional observances (Alsace/Moselle), closures follow local traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many national public holidays does France have?
France has 11 official public holidays that apply nationwide.
Does France shift holidays when they fall on a weekend?
No, France does not shift its public holidays if they fall on a weekend — they remain on the same date.
What extra holidays does Alsace/Moselle observe?
In Alsace and Moselle, Good Friday and St Stephen’s Day (December 26) are observed as public holidays, though they are not observed in other parts of France.
Why is Bastille Day important?
Bastille Day (July 14) marks a key event in the French Revolution (storming of the Bastille in 1789) and symbolizes the values of the Republic: liberty, equality, fraternity.
Conclusion
Public holidays in France mirror a blend of religious tradition, national pride, and regional heritage. From Easter observances to Bastille Day and commemorations of war milestones, these holidays are embedded in French public and cultural life.
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