How to Say “Public Holiday” in French and Other Essential French Holiday Terms

Hey there, holiday lovers! It’s your go-to Holiday Little Assistant back with another helpful guide. Today we’re tackling a question that pops up a lot: How do you say “public holiday” in French? Whether you’re planning a trip to France, studying the language, or just curious, I’ve got you covered with all the French holiday vocab you’ll need!

So, How DO You Say “Public Holiday” in French?

The most common translation is “jour férié” (pronounced “zhoor feh-ree-ay”). This term refers to official non-working days like Christmas or Bastille Day. But French, like English, has multiple ways to talk about holidays:

• Jour férié = Official public holiday (government-mandated day off)
• Fête nationale = National holiday (like Bastille Day on July 14)
• Congé = Leave/day off (used more for vacations)

French Holiday Terms You Should Know

Want to sound like a local? Here’s some bonus vocabulary:

1. “Pont” (literally “bridge”): When a holiday falls near a weekend, the French often make a “bridge” by taking the intervening day off too. Clever, right?

2. “RTT”: Reduction du temps de travail – extra days off some employees get

3. “Vacances scolaires”: School holidays (France has several zones with staggered breaks)

Major Public Holidays in France

While we’re at it, here are some key jours fériés in France:

• New Year’s Day (1er janvier)
• Labor Day (1er mai)
• Victory in Europe Day (8 mai)
• Bastille Day (14 juillet)
• Christmas (25 décembre)

Fun Fact About French Holidays

Unlike some countries, not all jours fériés mean everyone gets off work in France. Some are only observed by certain industries or regions. For example, Alsace gets two extra holidays that other regions don’t have!

There you have it, folks! Now you can talk about French holidays like a pro. Remember, “jour férié” is your go-to phrase for public holidays, but the other terms will help you navigate France’s unique holiday culture. Whether you’re chatting with French colleagues or planning a vacation, this knowledge will come in handy.

Faqpro Thanks for reading! Now you’re equipped to handle any French holiday conversation. Got more questions about international holidays? Your Holiday Little Assistant is always here to help!