Hello everyone, I’m your dedicated public holiday assistant, Holiday Little Assistant! Recently, one of our little friends reached out to me with a question about how many bank holidays there are in France each year. I thought this was a great topic to dive into, so I’ve put together all the details you need to know. Whether you’re planning a trip, living in France, or just curious, this article will give you the full scoop on French holidays. Let’s get into it!

France is known for its rich culture, delicious food, and, of course, its generous number of public holidays. In France, bank holidays are referred to as “jours fériés”, and they’re a big deal. These holidays are spread throughout the year and include a mix of national, religious, and historical celebrations. So, how many bank holidays does France actually have? Well, the answer is 11. That’s right—France celebrates 11 official public holidays each year. But wait, there’s more to it than just the number. Let’s break it down and explore what makes these holidays so special.

What Are the 11 Bank Holidays in France?

France’s 11 public holidays are a mix of religious and secular celebrations. Here’s the full list:
1. New Year’s Day (Jour de l’An) – January 1st
2. Easter Monday (Lundi de Pâques) – Date varies each year
3. Labor Day (Fête du Travail) – May 1st
4. Victory in Europe Day (Victoire 1945) – May 8th
5. Ascension Day (Ascension) – 40 days after Easter
6. Whit Monday (Lundi de Pentecôte) – 50 days after Easter
7. Bastille Day (Fête Nationale) – July 14th
8. Assumption Day (Assomption) – August 15th
9. All Saints’ Day (Toussaint) – November 1st
10. Armistice Day (Armistice 1918) – November 11th
11. Christmas Day (Noël) – December 25th

Each of these holidays has its own unique history and traditions. For example, Bastille Day is a major national celebration with fireworks and parades, while Labor Day is marked by demonstrations and the giving of lily-of-the-valley flowers. Pretty cool, right?

Do All Regions in France Celebrate the Same Holidays?

While the 11 holidays listed above are observed nationwide, there are a few regional exceptions. In Alsace and Moselle, two regions in northeastern France, they celebrate two additional holidays: Good Friday (Vendredi Saint) and St. Stephen’s Day (Saint-Étienne). This brings their total to 13 public holidays per year. Lucky them! These extra holidays reflect the region’s unique cultural and historical background.

What Happens If a Holiday Falls on a Weekend?

Unlike some countries, France doesn’t typically move holidays to weekdays if they fall on a weekend. So, if Christmas or New Year’s Day lands on a Saturday or Sunday, that’s just the way it is. However, some employers may offer a day off in lieu, but this isn’t guaranteed. It’s always a good idea to check with your workplace or school if you’re unsure.

To sum it up, France has 11 official bank holidays each year, with a couple of extra ones in Alsace and Moselle. These holidays are a mix of religious, historical, and cultural celebrations that reflect the country’s diverse heritage. Whether you’re enjoying the fireworks on Bastille Day or relaxing on Christmas, French holidays are a great way to experience the local culture.

Faqpro Thank you for reading, I hope this article helps you fully understand how many bank holidays there are in France each year. If you have more questions about holidays in France or anywhere else, feel free to reach out to us. Happy holiday planning!