Public Holidays in France 2026 – National & Christian Holidays
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 (2026)
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Day | Remarks / Observance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day (Jour de l’An) | January 1 | Thursday | Nationwide holiday |
| Good Friday (Vendredi Saint) | April 3 | Friday | Only in Alsace & Moselle regions |
| Easter Monday (Lundi de Pâques) | April 6 | Monday | Nationwide holiday |
| Labour Day (Fête du Travail) | May 1 | Friday | Nationwide holiday |
| Victory in Europe Day (Victoire 1945) | May 8 | Friday | End of WWII in Europe |
| Ascension Day (L’Ascension) | May 14 | Thursday | Christian observance |
| Whit Monday (Lundi de Pentecôte) | May 25 | Monday | Christian observance |
| National Day / Bastille Day | July 14 | Tuesday | French Revolution & national unity |
| Assumption Day (Assomption) | August 15 | Saturday | Religious holiday |
| All Saints’ Day (La Toussaint) | November 1 | Sunday | Honors all saints |
| Armistice Day (Jour d’Armistice) | November 11 | Wednesday | End of World War I |
| Christmas Day (Noël) | December 25 | Friday | Christian holiday |
| St Stephen’s Day (Saint Étienne) | December 26 | Saturday | Only in Alsace & Moselle regions |
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 | End of WWII in Europe |
| Ascension Day (L’Ascension) | May 29 | Thursday | Christian observance |
| Whit Monday (Lundi de Pentecôte) | June 9 | Monday | Christian observance |
| National Day / Bastille Day | July 14 | Monday | French Revolution & national unity |
| Assumption Day (Assomption) | August 15 | Friday | Religious holiday |
| All Saints’ Day (La Toussaint) | November 1 | Saturday | Honors all saints |
| Armistice Day (Jour d’Armistice) | November 11 | Tuesday | End of World War I |
| Christmas Day (Noël) | December 25 | Thursday | Christian holiday |
| 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 observe two additional public holidays: Good Friday and St Stephen’s Day (December 26). These holidays do not apply elsewhere in France.
Public Observance & Closures
On public holidays, public services, schools, banks, and many businesses close across France. Regional exceptions apply in Alsace and Moselle according to local law.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many national public holidays does France have?
France has 11 official public holidays observed nationwide each year.
Does France shift holidays when they fall on a weekend?
No. Public holidays in France are not shifted if they fall on a weekend.
What extra holidays does Alsace and Moselle observe?
Alsace and Moselle observe Good Friday and St Stephen’s Day (December 26) as additional public holidays.
Why is Bastille Day important?
Bastille Day (July 14) commemorates the storming of the Bastille in 1789 and symbolizes the Republic’s values of liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Conclusion
Public holidays in France reflect a balance of religious tradition, historical remembrance, and national identity. From Easter observances to Bastille Day and wartime commemorations, these holidays are integral to French public life.
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