Find out when local businesses may close or have limited opening hours
France observes 11 national holidays. Banks, offices, and most shops close on these days. In Paris and other cities, some restaurants, museums, and bakeries stay open, but always worth checking ahead if you have your heart set on somewhere.
|
Celebration |
Dates |
|
New Year’s Day |
1 January |
|
Easter Monday |
March or April (varies) |
|
May Day (Labour Day) |
1 May |
|
Victory in Europe Day |
8 May |
|
Ascension Day |
May (40 days after Easter) |
|
Whit Monday |
May or June (varies) |
|
Bastille Day (Fête Nationale) |
14 July |
|
Assumption Day |
15 August |
|
All Saints’ Day |
1 November |
|
Armistice Day |
11 November |
|
Christmas Day |
25 December |
July 14 deserves a special extra mention. Bastille Day brings fireworks, parades, and street parties nationwide — magical to witness, but expect road closures and packed town squares, especially if you're near Paris or the Riviera.
