How Public Holidays Work in France
Public holidays in France are defined by the Code du Travail. While there are 11 official days, only May 1st is mandatory paid leave for all; others depend on collective agreements.
France Holidays
2025 Holiday Calendar
| Date | Name | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Dec 31 | New Year's Day | National |
| Apr 5 | Easter Monday | National |
| Apr 30 | Labor Day | National |
| May 7 | Victory in Europe Day | National |
| May 13 | Feast of the Ascension of Jesus Christ | National |
| May 24 | Pentecost Monday | National |
| Jul 13 | Bastille Day | National |
| Aug 14 | Assumption of Mary | National |
| Oct 31 | All Saints' Day | National |
| Nov 10 | Armistice Day | National |
| Dec 24 | Christmas Day | National |
At a Glance: Common Holidays
Labour Day
MAY 1
The only public holiday that is mandatory paid leave for all employees by statute. Working requires double pay.
Bastille Day
JUL 14
The French National Day. Commemorates the Storming of the Bastille. Widely celebrated with military parades.
All Saints' Day
NOV 1
A major Catholic holiday. Traditionally, families visit cemeteries to honor the deceased.
Impact on Payroll & Leave
Public holidays in France involve strict compensation rules, especially for May 1st. Mandatory 100% premium pay for May 1st work. Compensatory rest rules for Sunday work. Impact on leave balance during holidays. Specific rules for Alsace-Moselle region.
Employee Rights on Public Holidays
Are employees compensated if a public holiday falls on a weekend?
Generally, no. It is usually lost unless a collective agreement grants a recovery day.What happens if an employee falls ill while on annual leave?
If the employee provides a medical certificate, the days of illness are converted to sick leave.Are public holidays paid time off?
Yes, for employees with at least 3 months seniority, public holidays are paid non-working days.