Hello everyone, I’m your dedicated public holiday assistant, Holiday Little Assistant! Recently, one of my little friends asked me, “How many public holidays are there 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 you need. Let’s dive in!

France is known for its rich culture, delicious food, and, of course, its public holidays. These holidays, or *jours fériés*, are a big deal in France. They’re a time for family gatherings, delicious meals, and sometimes even parades or fireworks. But just how many public holidays does France have? Well, the answer is 11 official public holidays each year. That’s right, 11 days where the French get to kick back, relax, and enjoy some well-deserved time off.

What Are the Public Holidays in France?

Let’s take a closer look at the 11 public holidays in France. These holidays are spread throughout the year and include both religious and secular celebrations. Here’s the full list:

• **New Year’s Day (Jour de l’An)** – January 1st, because who doesn’t love a fresh start?
• **Easter Monday (Lundi de Pâques)** – A movable holiday in spring, usually in March or April.
• **Labour Day (Fête du Travail)** – May 1st, celebrating workers’ rights.
• **Victory in Europe Day (Victoire 1945)** – May 8th, marking the end of World War II in Europe.
• **Ascension Day (Ascension)** – A religious holiday, usually in May.
• **Whit Monday (Lundi de Pentecôte)** – The day after Pentecost, another movable holiday.
• **Bastille Day (Fête Nationale)** – July 14th, France’s national day with fireworks and parades.
• **Assumption Day (Assomption)** – August 15th, a Catholic holiday.
• **All Saints’ Day (Toussaint)** – November 1st, honoring saints and departed loved ones.
• **Armistice Day (Armistice 1918)** – November 11th, commemorating the end of World War I.
• **Christmas Day (Noël)** – December 25th, because who doesn’t love presents and good food?

These holidays are celebrated across the country, but keep in mind that some regions, like Alsace and Lorraine, have a couple of extra holidays due to their unique cultural history. Lucky them!

Questions Related to Public Holidays in France

Now, let’s address some common questions about French holidays. First, are all these holidays paid? Well, it depends on your job and contract. Most employees get paid for public holidays, but some sectors, like retail or hospitality, might require you to work. If you do work on a public holiday, you might get extra pay or a day off in lieu. Always check with your employer to know your rights!

Another question I often hear is, “Do French holidays always fall on the same date?” Most do, like Bastille Day on July 14th or Christmas on December 25th. But some, like Easter Monday and Whit Monday, are movable holidays that change dates each year based on the lunar calendar. It’s a good idea to check the calendar every year to avoid surprises.

Summarizing, France has 11 public holidays, with a mix of religious and secular celebrations. These holidays are deeply rooted in French culture and history, making them special occasions for everyone. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet day at home or joining in the festivities, French holidays are all about taking a break and appreciating life.

Faqpro Thank you for reading, I hope this article helps you fully understand how many public holidays there are in France. If you have more questions, feel free to reach out to us. Until next time, happy holidays!