2026 Public Holidays in France: Key Dates You Need to Know

France, a vibrant country known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and stunning countryside, offers a delightful array of public holidays that celebrate its history, religion, and national pride. If you're planning a visit to France in 2026, you might want to familiarize yourself with these joyous occasions that bring the country to a standstill.

Public holidays, also known as "jours fériés" in French, provide the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture, attend colorful parades, or simply enjoy a slower pace of life. As you start planning your trip, here's a comprehensive look at the public holidays France will observe in 2026.

Fixed Public Holidays in France

Certain public holidays in France occur on the same date every year, regardless of the day of the week. These include celebrations like New Year's Day and Christmas, which are widely observed throughout the world.

Here are the fixed public holidays you can expect in France in 2026:

January 1st - New Year's Day

New Year's Day, or "Jour de l'An" in French, marks the beginning of the calendar year and is celebrated with fireworks, parades, and feasts. Many French cities host vibrant New Year's Eve celebrations, with Paris being a particular highlight.

In 2026, New Year's Day falls on a Sunday, which means Monday, January 2nd, will likely be a non-working day for most French people.

Easter Sunday and Easter Monday

Easter Sunday and Easter Monday are Christian holidays that celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. These public holidays are determined by the lunar cycle and can fall on different dates each year. In 2026, Easter Sunday is on April 4th, and Easter Monday is on April 5th.

Many French people enjoy family gatherings, egg hunts, and elaborate meals during the Easter holiday.

Moveable Public Holidays in France

Other public holidays in France are moveable, meaning their dates change each year depending on religious or lunar calendars. These include events like Easter, Pentecost, and the Assumption of Mary.

Here are the moveable public holidays in 2026:

May 1st - Labor Day (Lundi de Mai)

Labor Day, also known as "São João", is a celebration of workers' rights and the labor movement. This public holiday is often marked with parades, rallies, and other celebrations across France.

In 2026, Labor Day falls on a Monday, which means many French people will enjoy a long weekend. This is a perfect opportunity to explore French history and culture or simply relax and enjoy the warmer weather.

Ascension Day and Pentecost Monday

Ascension Day and Pentecost Monday are Christian holidays that celebrate the ascension of Jesus Christ to heaven and the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples, respectively. These public holidays are always held on a Thursday and the following Monday, although their dates change each year.

In 2026, Ascension Day is on May 25th, and Pentecost Monday is on May 29th. Many French people use these public holidays to take short trips or spend time with family and friends.

The Assumption of Mary (Assomption)

The Assumption of Mary, celebrated on August 15th, is a Catholic holiday that commemorates the assumption of the Virgin Mary into heaven. This public holiday is widely observed in France, with many cultural and religious events taking place across the country.

In 2026, the Assumption of Mary falls on a Tuesday, which means many French people will enjoy a long weekend. This is a popular time forAugust 15th vacationers, with many people visiting coastal towns and beaches.

All Saints' Day (La Toussaint)

All Saints' Day, celebrated on November 1st, is a Christian holiday that honors all saints, known and unknown. This public holiday is often marked with visits to cemeteries, prayers, and memorial services.

In 2026, All Saints' Day falls on a Thursday, which means many French people will take the following Friday, November 2nd, as a day off, effectively turning it into a long weekend. This is a popular time for many French people to visit family and loved ones.

France's diverse and rich cultural heritage is reflected in its public holidays, which provide a fascinating insight into the country's history, religion, and national pride. By familiarizing yourself with these joyous occasions, you'll be well on your way to planning an unforgettable trip to France in 2026.

So, start planning your visit today, and be sure to include some of these exciting public holidays in your itinerary. After all, there's no better way to experience France's vibrant culture than by joining in on the celebrations!