Public holidays in France are designated days when regular activities are paused or reduced, often celebrating significant historical, religious, or cultural events. In 2025, France will observe 11 public holidays, including New Year’s Day and Christmas, with key holidays in May creating opportunities for long weekends. Notably, while December 31 is not an official holiday, many businesses may close early. Planning days off around these holidays can enhance relaxation and enjoyment throughout the year.
Understanding Public Holidays
Definition of a Public Holiday
A public holiday is a designated day in the calendar year when regular operations such as work and educational activities are either paused or diminished. These holidays are often associated with important historical, religious, or cultural milestones significant to France.
Days Off: Working and Compensation
The specifics regarding public holidays, including the requirements for taking a day off, the option to work, and the associated pay, are established by individual countries or collective agreements.
Public Holidays in France for 2025
France observes a total of 11 public holidays throughout the year, occurring at various times from January 1 to December 31.
Here’s the breakdown of these holidays month by month:
- January: New Year’s Day
- April: Easter Monday
- May: Labor Day, Victory Day 1945, Ascension, Pentecost
- July: National Day
- August: Assumption
- November: All Saints’ Day, Armistice Day 1918
- December: Christmas
Upcoming Public Holidays in 2024
With the November public holidays already behind us, the next significant holiday in 2024 is Christmas, which falls on December 25, landing conveniently on a Wednesday. After that, the next public holidays will be in 2025.
Public Holidays for 2025
First Half of 2025 Public Holidays
Here are the public holidays scheduled for the first half of 2025:
- New Year’s Day: Wednesday, January 1, 2025
- Easter Monday: Monday, April 21, 2025
- Labor Day: Thursday, May 1, 2025
- Victory Day 1945: Thursday, May 8, 2025
- Ascension: Thursday, May 29, 2025
- Pentecost Monday: Sunday, June 8, 2025
Second Half of 2025 Public Holidays
- National Day: Monday, July 14, 2025
- Assumption: Friday, August 15, 2025
- All Saints’ Day: Saturday, November 1, 2025
- Armistice Day 1918: Tuesday, November 11, 2025
- Christmas Day: Thursday, December 25, 2025
Are December 31 and January 1 Public Holidays?
In France, December 31 is not recognized as a public holiday; only January 1 is officially a public holiday. Nevertheless, many companies may close early on December 31 to help employees prepare for New Year’s Eve celebrations. This day might be accounted for as a collective RTT (Réduction du Temps de Travail).
Public Holidays and Long Weekends in May 2025
Key Holidays in May
May is traditionally the month with the most public holidays:
- Labor Day: Thursday, May 1, 2025
- Victory Day 1945: Thursday, May 8, 2025
- Ascension: Thursday, May 29, 2025
- Pentecost Monday: Sunday, June 8, 2025
Maximizing Long Weekends in May
To take advantage of the long weekends in May, consider taking these days off in 2025:
- For Labor Day: Friday, May 2
- For Victory Day 1945: Friday, May 9
- For Ascension: Friday, May 30
Planning Long Weekends in May and August 2025
In 2025, nine out of the eleven public holidays will fall on weekdays, providing opportunities for extended weekends. Here’s how to plan your time off for a more relaxing holiday experience.
Long Weekends in May
By taking off May 2, May 9, and May 30, you can enjoy three enjoyable four-day weekends.
Long Weekends in August
August 15, which is Assumption Day, falls on a Friday, offering another opportunity for a long weekend.