France’s Bank Holidays: Your Complete Guide to Public Holidays in 2024

Hey there, holiday lovers! It’s your Holiday Little Assistant back with another deep dive – today we’re tackling one of the most Googled questions about France: “How many bank holidays are there in France?” Let’s unpack this like a croissant fresh from the boulangerie!

The Straight Answer

France officially has 11 bank holidays (called “jours fériés”) each year. But wait – here’s the twist that’ll make you say “Ooh la la!” – only Alsace and Moselle get 2 extra holidays (making 13 total) due to their unique historical status.

France’s 2024 Bank Holiday Calendar

Mark these dates in your planner with a baguette-shaped pen:
– January 1 – New Year’s Day
– April 1 – Easter Monday (moveable date)
– May 1 – Labor Day
– May 8 – WWII Victory Day
– May 9 – Ascension Day
– May 20 – Whit Monday
– July 14 – Bastille Day (fireworks alert!)
– August 15 – Assumption Day
– November 1 – All Saints’ Day
– November 11 – Armistice Day
– December 25 – Christmas Day
Pro tip: Alsace/Moselle also get December 26 (St. Stephen’s Day) and Good Friday!

Burning Questions About French Holidays

Do workers always get these days off?

Surprisingly, no! Unlike some countries, French law doesn’t automatically give paid leave for bank holidays (except for May 1). It’s up to workplace agreements – though most office workers do get them off. Retail and service workers? Often a different story.

What happens when holidays fall on weekends?

France plays it cool – no extra day off if a holiday lands on Saturday/Sunday. Exception? When May 8 or November 11 fall on Sunday, some memorial ceremonies still happen Monday.

Why does Alsace get special treatment?

History lesson! These regions were part of Germany when France established its secular holiday system in 1880. When they returned to France post-WWI, they kept their additional Catholic holidays via local law.

Holiday Hacks for France Travelers

– Museums and shops often close on holidays (especially May 1)
– Public transport runs reduced schedules
– Restaurants in tourist areas usually stay open
– Hotel prices spike around major holidays
– Want empty Paris photos? Visit on Assumption Day (August 15) when locals flee the city!

There you have it – everything you need to know about France’s bank holidays! Whether you’re planning a vacation or just holiday-curious, remember: the French take their jours fériés seriously (usually involving copious amounts of wine and cheese). À votre santé!

FAQpro tip: These dates stay pretty consistent year-to-year, but always double-check for your specific travel dates. Got more France holiday questions? Throw them our way – we live for this stuff!