2026 National Holidays in France: Top Days Off

As we look toward the future, the list of national holidays in France in the year 2026 is eagerly anticipated by locals and visitors alike. France, a country rich in culture and history, observes a variety of public holidays that celebrate both secular and religious events.

To help you plan your calendar and understand the significance of each day, we've compiled the expected national holidays in France for 2026, along with brief explanations and historical contexts.

Secular Holidays and Celebrations

France boasts several secular holidays that commemorate significant events or milestones in the country's history. These holidays are marked by national days off, parades, and various public events.

They are a testament to France's republican values, heritage, and its institutions, and include Celebration of the Republic (14th July), commemorating the storming of Bastille and marking the beginning of the French Revolution.

New Year's Day (1st January)

Kicking off the year, New Year's Day is a public holiday in France, marked by celebrations and fireworks displays. It's a time for families and friends to come together, reflecting on the past year and looking ahead to the future.

Coinciding with the holiday are significant gastronomic events such as the Epiphany, celebrated on the 6th of January. The Galette des Rois, a Kings' Cake, is traditionally enjoyed on this day, hiding a small figurine or bean within its layers.

Labor Day (1st May)

Celebrating workers' rights and the labor movement, Labor Day, or Fête du Travail, is an important secular holiday in France. Workers often march in parades to honor their rights and achievements, followed by picnics and other festivities.

Communities often gather to celebrate their shared identity, with many towns and villages hosting local traditions and events. In Paris, a grand military parade is held on the Champs-Élysées, showcasing France's military prowess and unity.

Religious Holidays and Catholic Days of Obligation

Given France's historical Catholic roots, several religious holidays are also observed as national holidays, with some varying depending on region. These include Christmas (25th December) and Easter Monday (after Easter Sunday).

Christmas, or Noël, is a major holiday in France, celebrated with family feasts and gift exchanges. Popular traditions include Grandmother's Soup, a traditional meal served on Christmas Eve, and the distribution of small gifts called calendriers or petits Secrets, which are opened window-by-window until Christmas.

Easter Monday (varies)

Easter Monday, also known as Lundi de Pâques, is a public holiday that follows Easter Sunday. It celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the end of the Lenten season. Easter eggs, chocolates, and other treats are exchanged among families and colleagues.

The day is also marked by religious services and parades, notably in the historic city of Houlgate, where an annual Easter parade features Easter eggs, music, and traditional costumes.

Easter Tuesday (varies)

In some French regions, particularly the Alsace-Moselle area, Easter Tuesday, or Lundi de Pâques, is observed as a public holiday. It's known for its festive events, such as the traditional 'Oeufs à la coque' egg rolling contest in Alsace.

Children take boiled eggs and try to roll them as far as possible without breaking them, a playful celebration of renewal and new beginnings.

As we approach 2026, these national holidays in France offer a fascinating glimpse into the country's complex history, rich culture, and vibrant life. Marking these days with celebration, reflection, and merriment, they provide opportunities for both locals and visitors to immerse themselves in French heritage and tradition.