French Public Holidays 2026: French Holiday Calendar

Find the full list of French public holidays 2026 with dates and details on France's national holidays and observances in the French holiday calendar 2026.👀

French Public Holidays 2026

In 2026, France will observe 11 nationwide public holidays, along with a few regional holidays specific to Bas-Rhin, Haut-Rhin, and Moselle. The year also includes several observances, such as religious events like Eid al-Fitr and Whit Sunday, as well as seasonal dates like the equinoxes. Some holidays—most notably Good Friday and St. Stephen’s Day—are officially recognized only in Alsace-Moselle.

Below is the updated list of French public holidays for 2026, including key observances and regional holidays.

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France Holiday Calendar 2026 – New Year's Day (Jour de l'An)

France New Year's Day Date: 1 January 2026

New Year's Day, or Jour de l'An, is celebrated on 1 January 2026. This national holiday marks the beginning of the new year and is a time for celebration and reflection. It is a one-day public holiday observed by all of France.

New Year's Day Origins in France

New Year's Day has been celebrated since ancient times, but the modern tradition in France dates back to 1564 when King Charles IX adopted the Edict of Roussillon, setting January 1 as the official start of the year. Prior to this, the new year was celebrated on different dates in various regions, often on Easter or March 25.

What French People Do on New Year's Day

Celebrations begin on New Year's Eve (La Saint-Sylvestre), December 31, with parties, feasts, and fireworks. Families and friends gather for a special meal called le Réveillon de la Saint-Sylvestre, featuring dishes like foie gras, oysters, and champagne. At midnight, people kiss under the mistletoe and exchange New Year's greetings and best wishes (les vœux). On New Year's Day, it's customary to visit family and friends or send cards conveying good wishes for the year ahead.

New Year's Day Holiday Closures

As part of the French public holidays 2026, 1 January 2026 is a public holiday. Most businesses, schools, government offices, and shops are closed. Public transport operates on a reduced schedule, so travelers should check timetables in advance.

France Holiday Calendar 2026 – Easter Monday (Lundi de Pâques)

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France Easter Monday Date: 4 April 2026

Easter Monday, or Lundi de Pâques, is celebrated on 4 April 2026. It is a national public holiday in France and provides an extension to the Easter festivities, allowing families to continue their celebrations.

Easter Monday Origins in France

The tradition of observing Easter Monday as a public holiday dates back to the Middle Ages. It was established to provide an additional day of rest and religious observance following the significant events of Easter Sunday.

What French People Do on Easter Monday

Many families take advantage of the day off to gather for extended meals, visit relatives, or enjoy outdoor activities if the weather permits. In some regions, local festivals and parades are held. For example, in the town of Bessières in southwestern France, a giant omelette made with thousands of eggs is prepared and shared among the community.

Easter Monday Holiday Closures

As part of the French public holidays 2026, 4 April 2026 is a public holiday. Schools, government offices, banks, and many businesses are closed. Public transport operates on a reduced schedule.

France Holiday Calendar 2026 – International Workers' Day (Fête du Travail)

Source from Wikipedia

France Workers' Day Date: 1 May 2026

International Workers' Day, or Fête du Travail, is celebrated on 1 May 2026. This day honors workers and the labor movement and is one of the most important national public holidays in France.

Workers' Day Origins in France

International Workers' Day has been celebrated in France since 1890, inspired by the American labor movement and the Haymarket Affair of 1886 in Chicago. The day became an official public holiday in France in 1919, recognizing the contributions and rights of workers.

What French People Do on Workers' Day

Traditionally, people give and receive sprigs of lily of the valley (muguet) as a symbol of good luck. The custom dates back to 1561 when King Charles IX received the flower and decided to present it each year to the ladies of his court. Labor unions and workers' organizations hold parades and demonstrations advocating for workers' rights and social justice, particularly in major cities like Paris. It's also a day for families to relax and spend time together.

Workers' Day Holiday Closures

On 1 May 2026, nearly all businesses, shops, schools, government offices, and even many restaurants are closed. It is one of the few days in France when most public transportation services, including the Paris Metro, operate on a very limited schedule or not at all. Travelers should plan accordingly.

France Holiday Calendar 2026 – Victory Day (Fête de la Victoire)

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France Victory Day Date: 8 May 2026

Victory Day, or Fête de la Victoire, is celebrated on 8 May 2026. This national holiday commemorates the end of World War II in Europe, marking the Allied victory over Nazi Germany in 1945. It is a one-day public holiday observed throughout France.

Victory Day Origins in France

Victory Day marks the official end of World War II in Europe, specifically the surrender of Nazi Germany on 8 May 1945. In France, this day honors the sacrifices of soldiers and civilians who fought and suffered during the war. The holiday was officially established in 1953 but was temporarily abolished in 1975 before being reinstated in 1981.

What French People Do on Victory Day

On Victory Day, ceremonies are held across the country to honor veterans and those who lost their lives during the war. The French President typically leads a commemoration in Paris, laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier beneath the Arc de Triomphe. Local officials and veterans participate in memorial services and parades in towns and cities nationwide. It's a day of remembrance and reflection, with flags flown at government buildings and moments of silence observed.

Victory Day Holiday Closures

As part of the French public holidays 2026, 8 May 2026 is a public holiday. Schools, government offices, banks, and many businesses are closed. Public transport operates on a reduced schedule, but essential services remain available.

France Holiday Calendar 2026 – Ascension Day (Jour de l'Ascension)

Source from Wikipedia

France Ascension Day Date: 14 May 2026

Ascension Day, or Jour de l'Ascension, is celebrated on 14 May 2026. This Christian holiday commemorates the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven, occurring 40 days after Easter Sunday. It is a one-day national public holiday observed throughout France.

Ascension Day Origins in France

Ascension Day has been celebrated since the early days of Christianity. It marks the 40th day of Easter and signifies Jesus Christ's ascent to heaven after his resurrection. The holiday has deep roots in French religious tradition and has been recognized as a public holiday for many centuries.

What French People Do on Ascension Day

Many French people attend Mass and participate in religious services. It is also common for families to use this day for short vacations or to spend time together, as the holiday often creates a long weekend when combined with a Friday off (faire le pont). Cultural events, local festivals, and community gatherings may also take place.

Ascension Day Holiday Closures

On 14 May 2026, schools, government offices, banks, and most businesses are closed as part of the French public holidays. Public transport operates on a holiday schedule, so travelers should check timetables in advance.

France Holiday Calendar 2026 – Whit Monday (Lundi de Pentecôte)

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France Whit Monday Date: 25 May 2026

Whit Monday, or Lundi de Pentecôte, is celebrated on 25 May 2026. It is the day after Whit Sunday and is a national public holiday in France. Originally a religious holiday, it has also become a day associated with solidarity and support for charitable causes.

Whit Monday Origins in France

Whit Monday was traditionally a continuation of the Pentecost celebrations. In 2004, the French government briefly removed Whit Monday as a public holiday to create a "Solidarity Day" (Journée de Solidarité) to fund support for the elderly and disabled. Due to public discontent, it was reinstated as a public holiday in 2008, but the concept of the Solidarity Day remained, allowing companies flexibility in how they observe it.

What French People Do on Whit Monday

Many people take advantage of the day off to relax or spend time with family and friends. Some attend religious services, while others participate in charitable events linked to the original Solidarity Day initiative. Cultural events, music festivals, and community gatherings are also common.

Whit Monday Holiday Closures

On 25 May 2026, as part of the French public holidays, schools, government offices, banks, and many businesses are closed. Public transport operates on a reduced schedule.

France Holiday Calendar 2026 – Bastille Day (Fête Nationale)

Source from Wikipedia

France Bastille Day Date: 14 July 2026

Bastille Day, or Fête Nationale, is celebrated on 14 July 2026. This national holiday commemorates the Storming of the Bastille on 14 July 1789, a pivotal event at the beginning of the French Revolution. It symbolizes the birth of the French Republic and is a one-day public holiday observed throughout France.

Bastille Day Origins in France

The Storming of the Bastille was a turning point in French history, representing the uprising of the modern nation and the dismantling of the old regime. The Bastille, a medieval fortress and prison in Paris, was seen as a symbol of royal tyranny. Its fall marked the beginning of the French Revolution and the eventual establishment of the Republic.

What French People Do on Bastille Day

Bastille Day is celebrated with military parades, fireworks, concerts, and public festivities. The largest parade takes place on the Champs-Élysées in Paris, attended by the French President and other dignitaries. Firework displays light up the skies in cities and towns across the country, with one of the most spectacular shows at the Eiffel Tower. People attend street parties, dances (bals des pompiers), and communal meals, embracing national pride and unity.

Bastille Day Holiday Closures

On 14 July 2026, as part of the French public holidays, most businesses, shops, schools, and government offices are closed. Public transport operates, but schedules may be adjusted due to events and celebrations, especially in major cities like Paris. Travelers should anticipate road closures and plan accordingly.

France Holiday Calendar 2026 – Assumption Day (L'Assomption)

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France Assumption Day Date: 15 August 2026

Assumption Day, or L'Assomption, is celebrated on 15 August 2026. This national holiday commemorates the Assumption of the Virgin Mary into heaven, a significant event in the Catholic faith. It is a one-day public holiday observed throughout France.

Assumption Day Origins in France

Assumption Day has been celebrated since the early centuries of Christianity. The doctrine of the Assumption, which holds that the Virgin Mary was taken body and soul into heavenly glory, was officially defined by the Catholic Church in 1950 by Pope Pius XII. In France, where Catholicism has historically been the predominant religion, Assumption Day has long been an important feast day.

What French People Do on Assumption Day

Many French people attend Mass and participate in religious processions honoring the Virgin Mary. In some towns and villages, especially in the south of France, festivals and fairs are organized, featuring music, dancing, and communal meals. Coastal towns may hold boat processions, where ships are decorated and paraded in honor of Mary. For many, Assumption Day is also an opportunity to enjoy the summer weather, with families spending time outdoors or taking short vacations.

Assumption Day Holiday Closures

On 15 August 2026, as part of the French public holidays 2026, most businesses, shops, schools, and government offices are closed. Public transport operates on a holiday schedule, so travelers should plan accordingly. As it falls in the peak of summer, some services may already be limited due to the holiday season.

France Holiday Calendar 2026 – All Saints' Day (La Toussaint)

Source from Wikipedia

France All Saints' Day Date: 1 November 2026

All Saints' Day, or La Toussaint, is celebrated on 1 November 2026. This national holiday honors all saints of the Catholic Church and is a time for remembering deceased loved ones. It is a one-day public holiday observed throughout France.

All Saints' Day Origins in France

All Saints' Day has been celebrated since the early Christian era, established to honor all saints, known and unknown. In France, the tradition is deeply rooted, reflecting the country's strong Catholic heritage. The day is followed by All Souls' Day on November 2, which specifically commemorates the faithful departed.

What French People Do on All Saints' Day

On La Toussaint, French families visit cemeteries to lay flowers, particularly chrysanthemums, on the graves of deceased relatives. It's a day of remembrance and reflection. Many attend Mass or participate in religious services dedicated to the saints and the departed. The atmosphere is solemn yet respectful, with cemeteries adorned in colorful blooms.

All Saints' Day Holiday Closures

As part of the French public holidays 2026, 1 November 2026 is a public holiday. Schools, government offices, banks, and many businesses are closed. Public transport operates on a reduced schedule. Since it falls on a Saturday in 2026, some closures may overlap with regular weekend closures.

France Holiday Calendar 2026 – Armistice Day (Jour de l'Armistice)

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France Armistice Day Date: 11 November 2026

Armistice Day, or Jour de l'Armistice, is celebrated on 11 November 2026. This national holiday commemorates the end of World War I in 1918 and honors those who died in the war. It is a one-day public holiday observed throughout France.

Armistice Day Origins in France

On 11 November 1918, the armistice was signed between the Allies and Germany, ending hostilities on the Western Front and effectively concluding World War I. France, having suffered significant losses, established Armistice Day to remember and honor the fallen soldiers and the sacrifices made during the war.

What French People Do on Armistice Day

Ceremonies are held nationwide, with the main event in Paris where the French President lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier beneath the Arc de Triomphe. A moment of silence is observed at 11:00 AM to mark the exact time the armistice took effect. Local communities hold memorial services, and veterans participate in parades and wreath-laying ceremonies. It's a day of remembrance, reflection, and national unity.

Armistice Day Holiday Closures

On 11 November 2026, as part of the French public holidays, schools, government offices, banks, and many businesses are closed. Public transport services operate on a holiday schedule, so travelers should check timetables in advance.

France Holiday Calendar 2026 – Christmas Day (Noël)

France Christmas Day Date: 25 December 2026

Christmas Day, or Noël, is celebrated on 25 December 2026. This is one of the most significant religious and cultural holidays in France, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a one-day public holiday observed nationwide.

Christmas Day Origins in France

Christmas has been celebrated in France since the arrival of Christianity. Over time, it has incorporated various customs and traditions unique to the country. While rooted in religious observance, Christmas in France also emphasizes family, generosity, and festivity.

What French People Do on Christmas Day

French families often attend Midnight Mass (Messe de Minuit) on Christmas Eve, followed by a Réveillon—a late-night festive meal. On Christmas Day, families gather to exchange gifts and enjoy a special meal, which may include dishes like foie gras, oysters, turkey, and for dessert, the Bûche de Noël (Yule log cake). Homes and public spaces are decorated with Christmas trees and nativity scenes (crèches). In some regions, particularly in the east and south, markets (marchés de Noël) are held throughout December.

Christmas Day Holiday Closures

As part of the French public holidays 2026, 25 December 2026 is a public holiday. Most businesses, shops, schools, and government offices are closed. Public transport operates on a limited schedule, and services may be reduced or unavailable, especially in smaller towns. Travelers should plan accordingly.