Bank holidays in France 2025

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. 

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.