France has eleven national public holidays ("jours fériés"), but only 1 May is a mandatory paid day off for nearly all workers; the rest depend on collective agreements. Alsace and Moselle add two extra dates (St Stephen's Day and Good Friday) due to their particular history.
In 2026, France has 11 official public holidays. The month with the most holidays is May, with 4. 5 months have no public holiday at all.
There are 5 potential long weekends this year, from holidays landing on a Monday or Friday. Meanwhile, 2 holidays fall on a Saturday or Sunday.
The longest stretch without a public holiday runs from New Year's Day (January 1) to Easter Monday (April 6): 95 days.
The first holiday of the year is New Year's Day (January 1) and the last is Christmas Day (December 25).
Long weekends in 2026
Holidays landing on a Monday or Friday
Easter Monday
April 6 · Monday
Labour Day
May 1 · Friday
Victory in Europe Day
May 8 · Friday
Whit Monday
May 25 · Monday
Christmas Day
December 25 · Friday
Frequently asked questions
How many public holidays does France have in 2026?+
France has 11 official public holidays in 2026, with May being the busiest month (4).
What is the first public holiday of 2026 in France?+
The first public holiday of 2026 is New Year's Day, on January 1.
How many long weekends are there in France in 2026?+
5 holidays land on a Monday or Friday, which can create long weekends.
Which 2026 holidays fall on a weekend in France?+
2 holidays fall on a Saturday or Sunday: Assumption Day (August 15), All Saints' Day (November 1).