French Public Holidays A Guide to National Celebrations
French Public Holidays – People around the world know France for its rich history, culture, and traditions. Its national holidays, which the whole country celebrates together, are an important part of its culture. Here’s everything you need to know about French public holidays and what they mean, whether you’re planning a trip there or are just interested.
The Importance of Public Holidays in France
The “jours fériés,” or public holidays, in France are a mix of national, religious, and political events. Many of these days are celebrated with parades, holidays, and a sense of national pride. You can get around better in France if you know about these holidays, whether you’re a guest or a local.
Major Public Holidays
France has a number of important holidays that are observed all over the country. Here are a few of the most well-known ones.
a. New Year’s Day (Jour de l’An) – January 1st
New Year’s Day is a worldwide holiday that marks the beginning of the year. In France, it’s a day for getting together with family and thinking quietly. Festive meals are often served.
b. Easter Monday (Lundi de Pâques) – Date Varies
In the Christian faith, Easter Monday comes the day after Easter Sunday. It’s a day to relax, and families often spend it outside having picnics and doing other fun things.
c. Labor Day (Fête du Travail) – May 1st
In France, Labor Day is a time to honor workers and their rights. As a sign of good luck, people give each other lily of the valley flowers (muguet) on this day. A lot of stores and services are closed.
d. Victory in Europe Day (Fête de la Victoire) – May 8th
On this day, the end of World War II in Europe is celebrated. People in France honor the troops and civilians who helped them win the war against Nazi Germany on May 8. This day is full of parades and ceremonies to remember.
e. Bastille Day (Fête Nationale) – July 14th
Today is Bastille Day, which may be the most well-known French state holiday. It honors the French Revolution and the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789. On this day, people show their national pride with big fireworks shows, military parades, and other public events.
Religious Holidays in France
In France, there are a number of public religious holidays that come from Catholic custom.
a. Ascension Day (Jour de l’Ascension) – Date Varies
It is a Christian holiday that celebrates the rising of Jesus Christ into heaven. It is held 40 days after Easter. A lot of people travel or just relax over the long weekend.
b. Assumption Day (L’Assomption) – August 15th
On Assumption Day, people remember when the Virgin Mary went to heaven. In places where Catholics are strong, this day is marked by church services and neighborhood celebrations.
c. All Saints’ Day (La Toussaint) – November 1st
On All Saints’ Day, people honor the saints and think about loved ones who have died. A lot of French families go to cemeteries to leave flowers, mostly chrysanthemums, on the graves.
Historical Holidays Unique to France
a. Armistice Day (Jour de l’Armistice) – November 11th
People remember the end of World War I on Armistice Day. France remembers the people who died in the war on this sad day. All over the country, there are military parades and rituals to remember the dead.
Secular and Cultural Celebrations
There are more than just religious or historical events in France. Some holidays in France honor the country’s history and values.
a. Whit Monday (Lundi de Pentecôte) – Date Varies
Whit Monday used to be a Christian holiday, but now it’s more of a cultural day off in France. Business do stay open, but a lot of people use the time off to rest or spend with family.
b. Christmas Day (Noël) – December 25th
France celebrates Christmas, but the traditions can be different from one area to the next. Today is a very important day that is marked by Christmas markets, holiday meals, and family get-togethers.
Conclusion of French Public Holidays
French public holidays, whether they are religious or not, show what the country stands for, how it was founded, and its customs. Knowing about these events will make your time in France better, whether you’re just visiting or living there. Plan ahead, and if you happen to be in France on a holiday, either join the fun or enjoy the peace and quiet while the country is off.