Christmas Day in France: Dates and Public Holiday Rules
View the global Christmas Day guide
Christmas Day is an annual holiday celebrated on 25 December.
Christmas Day, called jour de Noël in French, is observed on 25 December. It is the legal Christmas holiday following family celebrations on Christmas Eve. Article L3133-1 of the French Labour Code includes the underlying French holiday in the national list of legal holidays.
Christmas Day
Holiday
France
Country
2026
Next Date Year
Friday
Day
Dec
25
December 25, 2026
Christmas Day Date in France
Date
December 25, 2026
Day
Friday
Public Holiday
Yes
Bank Holiday
Yes
Date Confirmed
Yes
Christmas Day Dates in France
Christmas Day 2026
- Confirmed
Christmas Day 2027
- Confirmed
Christmas Day 2028
- Confirmed
About Christmas Day
Christmas Day is one of the most widely observed holidays around the world. Traditions and public holiday arrangements vary by country.
History of Christmas Day
Noël commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and is fixed on 25 December. It is part of France’s Christian and year-end holiday calendar.
Importance of Christmas Day
Christmas has religious, family and commercial importance and shapes year-end schedules. In Alsace-Moselle, surrounding legal arrangements can differ from the general national framework.
How Christmas Day Is Celebrated in France
Christmas meals, gifts, church services, markets and family gatherings are common, with regional customs and household traditions shaping the day.
Office Impact
Many government offices close for jour de Noël. Private-sector work and pay depend on the Labour Code, collective agreements and business needs; 1 May has distinct mandatory rules and exceptions.
Bank Impact
Bank branches generally close on a legal holiday, while cards and online services continue. Transactions requiring interbank settlement can wait until the next TARGET or French banking business day.
School Impact
State schools follow the official zone calendar and legal holidays. Holiday timing can overlap a longer vacation, and the Education Ministry may specify bridge days such as the Friday after Ascension.
Travel Information
Rail, road and air demand may increase around jour de Noël, particularly when it creates a long weekend. Confirm local transport and museum schedules because services and closures vary by operator and territory.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Christmas Day in France?
It is observed on 25 December.
What is the French holiday name?
The relevant French term is jour de Noël.
Does every legal holiday guarantee paid leave?
No. Employment treatment depends on the Labour Code and applicable agreements, with special statutory protection applying to 1 May.