Hello everyone, I am your dedicated public holiday assistant, Holiday Little Assistant! Recently, a little friend asked me about how many public holidays there are in France. It’s a great question, and I’m here to break it all down for you. Whether you’re planning a trip, living in France, or just curious, this guide will give you all the details about French holidays. Let’s dive in!

France is known for its rich culture, history, and of course, its holidays. The French take their public holidays seriously, and there’s a good mix of national, religious, and regional celebrations. So, how many holidays are we talking about? Well, France has a total of 11 public holidays each year. These are days when most businesses, schools, and government offices are closed, and people get to relax, spend time with family, or join in local festivities.

What Are the 11 Public Holidays in France?

Let’s take a closer look at these 11 holidays. Some are tied to historical events, while others have religious significance. Here’s the full list:
1. **New Year’s Day (Jour de l’An)** – January 1st
2. **Easter Monday (Lundi de Pâques)** – Date varies (spring)
3. **Labor Day (Fête du Travail)** – May 1st
4. **Victory in Europe Day (Victoire 1945)** – May 8th
5. **Ascension Day (Ascension)** – Date varies (40 days after Easter)
6. **Whit Monday (Lundi de Pentecôte)** – Date varies (50 days after Easter)
7. **Bastille Day (Fête Nationale)** – July 14th
8. **Assumption of Mary (Assomption)** – August 15th
9. **All Saints’ Day (Toussaint)** – November 1st
10. **Armistice Day (Armistice 1918)** – November 11th
11. **Christmas Day (Noël)** – December 25th

As you can see, some of these holidays, like Easter Monday and Whit Monday, are tied to the Christian calendar, while others, like Bastille Day, celebrate French history and culture.

Are There Any Regional Holidays in France?

Absolutely! While the 11 holidays listed above are observed nationwide, some regions in France have additional holidays. For example, in Alsace and Moselle, they celebrate **Good Friday (Vendredi Saint)** and **St. Stephen’s Day (Saint-Étienne)** on December 26th. These regional holidays reflect the unique cultural and historical influences of different parts of France. So, depending on where you are, you might get a couple of extra days off!

Do French Holidays Change Every Year?

Great question! Most of the French holidays fall on fixed dates, like New Year’s Day or Bastille Day. However, some holidays, like Easter Monday and Ascension Day, are based on the lunar calendar, so their dates change slightly each year. This can make planning a bit tricky, but it’s all part of the fun!

To sum it up, France has 11 national public holidays, with a few extra regional ones depending on where you are. These holidays are a big part of French life, offering people a chance to celebrate, relax, and enjoy their rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning to visit France, keep these dates in mind—it’s a great way to experience the country’s traditions and festivities!

Faqpro Thank you for reading, I hope this article has helped you fully understand how many public holidays there are in France. If you have more questions, feel free to contact us. À bientôt!