Are you a traveler planning a trip to France? Or do you live in France and want to organize your time off?
Knowing all the French bank holidays in advance is essential for making the most of local events and ensuring smooth travel plans.
Here’s a quick guide to France’s public holidays in 2025
complete with tips for both travelers and locals!
🇫🇷 📅 🌞
What are bank holidays in France? 🤔
Bank holidays (or “jours fériés” in French) are public holidays when most businesses, schools, and offices close, giving locals a chance to relax and celebrate. But if you’re a visitor, don’t worry—many attractions and restaurants in popular areas remain open to welcome travelers.
In France, most public holidays are national, but some regions—like Alsace and Moselle—have a few extra days off (lucky them!). It’s always worth double-checking if you’re traveling to these areas.
France’s public holidays in 2025 📅
Here’s a list of the national public holidays for 2025:
- ✅ New Year’s Day (Jour de l’An): Wednesday, January 1
- ✅ Good Friday (Vendredi Saint): Friday, April 18 (only in the Alsace and Moselle regions)
- ✅ Easter Monday (Lundi de Pâques): Monday, April 21
- ✅ Labor Day (Fête du Travail): Thursday, May 1
- ✅ Victory in Europe Day (Fête de la Victoire): Thursday, May 8
- ✅ Ascension Day (Jour de l’Ascension): Thursday, May 29
- ✅ Whit Monday (Lundi de Pentecôte): Monday, June 9
- ✅ Bastille Day (Fête Nationale): Monday, July 14
- ✅ Assumption of Mary (Assomption): Friday, August 15
- ✅ All Saints’ Day (Toussaint): Saturday, November 1
- ✅ Armistice Day (Jour d’Armistice): Tuesday, November 11
- ✅ Christmas Day (Noël): Thursday, December 25
MEININGER Tip: visiting France in December? Make sure to check out our guide to the Lyon Festival of Lights 2024, one of the most magical events perfectly timed with the festive season.
What to expect on bank holidays in France🌟
France’s bank holidays can impact your plans, so here’s what you should know:
1. Local events & festivities 🎉
Bastille Day (July 14): This iconic holiday features grand parades, spectacular fireworks, and celebrations across the country. The Eiffel Tower fireworks show is a must-see if you’re in Paris.
Victory in Europe Day (May 8): Marked by ceremonies honoring the end of WWII, this holiday provides a more reflective but equally meaningful experience.
2. Public Transport 🚆
Train and bus services may follow a reduced “Sunday” timetable, so always check schedules in advance.
Top tips for planning around bank holidays 💡
For travelers:
✅ Join in: Certain holidays, like Bastille Day, are incredible cultural experiences. Don’t miss parades, fireworks, and special events!
✅ Double-check: Many museums, shops, and attractions may have limited hours or close entirely, so plan your itinerary carefully.
For locals:
✅ Plan early: Long weekends are a great time for a getaway, but accommodations fill up quickly. Book hotels, trains, or flights well in advance.
✅ Make it count: Several holidays in 2025, like May 1 and May 8, fall on Thursdays or Mondays. Use a “bridge day” (faire le pont) for an extended vacation!
Whether you’re a traveler looking to catch local festivities or a France resident planning your vacation days, this guide to French bank holidays helps you make the most of your time.
If you’re planning a European getaway and want to explore public holidays in neighboring countries, don’t miss our guide to Bank Holidays Germany 2024 & 2025 to help you make the most of your trip.
Bank Holidays in France 2025: FAQs
What are bank holidays in France?
Bank holidays in France, called “jours fériés,” are public holidays when most businesses, schools, and offices close. These days are a chance for locals to relax and celebrate special occasions. However, if you’re a traveler, you’ll find that many attractions and restaurants in popular areas stay open to welcome visitors. Some regions, like Alsace and Moselle, even enjoy a few extra holidays.
When are the bank holidays in France in 2025?
In 2025, France’s public holidays include:
• New Year’s Day: January 1 (Wednesday)
• Good Friday: April 18 (only in Alsace and Moselle)
• Easter Monday: April 21 (Monday)
• Labor Day: May 1 (Thursday)
• Victory in Europe Day: May 8 (Thursday)
• Ascension Day: May 29 (Thursday)
• Whit Monday: June 9 (Monday)
• Bastille Day: July 14 (Monday)
• Assumption of Mary: August 15 (Friday)
• All Saints’ Day: November 1 (Saturday)
• Armistice Day: November 11 (Tuesday)
• Christmas Day: December 25 (Thursday).
Are shops and attractions open on French bank holidays?
It depends. Many shops, museums, and attractions may close or have reduced hours on bank holidays. However, in tourist hotspots like Paris or the French Riviera, major attractions and restaurants often remain open to accommodate travelers. Always check ahead to confirm operating hours.
Does public transport operate on French bank holidays?
Yes, but public transport usually follows a reduced “Sunday” timetable on bank holidays. Trains, buses, and metros might run less frequently, so it’s wise to check schedules in advance to avoid disruptions to your travel plans.
What are the most important bank holidays for travelers in France?
Bastille Day on July 14 is a highlight, featuring parades, fireworks, and nationwide celebrations. Victory in Europe Day on May 8 offers a reflective cultural experience with WWII memorial events. Both provide unique opportunities to immerse yourself in French traditions.
How can travelers plan around French bank holidays?
Travelers should double-check the opening hours of attractions and join in the festivities. For example, Bastille Day offers parades and fireworks, while local events on other holidays add cultural charm. Plan your itinerary to make the most of these special days.
What tips do locals have for making the most of French bank holidays?
Locals often take advantage of long weekends, especially when holidays fall on Thursdays or Mondays. They use “bridge days” (faire le pont) to enjoy extended vacations. Booking accommodations and transport early is crucial, as these periods are popular for getaways.
Are there regional bank holidays in France?
Yes, the Alsace and Moselle regions celebrate additional holidays like Good Friday. If you’re visiting these areas, it’s a good idea to check the local holiday calendar for any extra closures or events.
What can travelers expect during Bastille Day celebrations?
Bastille Day on July 14 is France’s national holiday and features iconic parades, music, and dazzling fireworks. In Paris, the fireworks at the Eiffel Tower are a must-see. Local celebrations in towns and villages also showcase the festive spirit.
How can I use bank holidays in France to plan a European trip?
Bank holidays in France are ideal for planning getaways. For example, holidays like May 1 or May 8 create long weekends perfect for exploring nearby European countries. Use MEININGER Hotels’ guides, like the Bank Holidays Germany 2024 & 2025, to organize your trips effectively.
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