Planning a trip to France or simply curious about the days off in France in 2025? This comprehensive guide details all the official public holidays in France for 2025, including their dates and significance. Understanding these holidays is crucial for anyone interacting with French businesses, planning travel, or simply wanting to understand French culture.
Official Public Holidays in France 2025
France observes eleven public holidays annually. These are nationally recognized days of rest and often involve family gatherings, special events, and closures of many businesses. Here's the complete list for 2025:
| Date | Day of the Week | Holiday Name (English) | Holiday Name (French) | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 1st | Wednesday | New Year's Day | Jour de l'An | Celebrates the beginning of the new year. |
| April 19th | Saturday | Easter Monday | Lundi de Pâques | The Monday following Easter Sunday, a Christian holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus. |
| April 14th | Monday | Easter Sunday | Pâques | A Christian holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus. |
| May 1st | Thursday | Labour Day | Fête du Travail | Celebrates workers' rights and achievements. |
| May 8th | Thursday | Victory in Europe Day | Victoire 1945 | Commemorates the end of World War II in Europe. |
| May 25th | Sunday | Ascension Day | Ascension | A Christian holiday, celebrating the ascension of Jesus into heaven. |
| June 1st | Sunday | Whit Sunday | Pentecôte | A Christian holiday, celebrating the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles. |
| June 8th | Sunday | Whit Monday | Lundi de Pentecôte | The Monday following Whit Sunday. |
| July 14th | Monday | Bastille Day (National Day) | Fête Nationale | Celebrates the storming of the Bastille in 1789, marking the start of the French Revolution. |
| August 15th | Friday | Assumption of Mary | Assomption | A Catholic holiday celebrating the Assumption of the Virgin Mary into Heaven. |
| November 1st | Saturday | All Saints' Day | Toussaint | Commemorates all the saints. |
| November 11th | Tuesday | Armistice Day (Remembrance Day) | Armistice 1918 | Commemorates the end of World War I. |
| December 25th | Thursday | Christmas Day | Noël | Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. |
Planning Around French Public Holidays
Knowing these dates is essential for various reasons:
- Travel: Many tourist attractions might have altered opening hours or increased visitor numbers on public holidays. Booking accommodations and transportation well in advance is recommended.
- Business: Most businesses and offices will be closed on public holidays. Scheduling meetings or expecting prompt responses might be challenging.
- Social Events: Many social events and festivals are planned around these holidays, adding a unique cultural experience to your visit or daily life in France.
Beyond the Dates: Understanding French Culture
French public holidays aren't simply days off; they're deeply ingrained in French culture and history. Observing these holidays provides insights into French values and traditions. From the religious significance of Easter and Christmas to the national pride expressed on Bastille Day, understanding these celebrations enriches the experience of visiting or living in France. Take the opportunity to delve deeper into the history and meaning behind each holiday to truly appreciate the vibrant cultural tapestry of France.
This comprehensive guide should help you navigate the French public holidays in 2025. Remember to always double-check specific opening hours and operational schedules for businesses and services you plan to use during these periods. Bon voyage!
