New Year's Day in France: Dates and Public Holiday Rules
View the global New Year's Day guide
New Year's Day, called Jour de l’An in French, is observed on 1 January. It opens the civil year after réveillon celebrations. Article L3133-1 of the French Labour Code includes the underlying French holiday in the national list of legal holidays.
New Year's Day
Holiday
France
Country
2026
Next Date Year
Thursday
Day
Jan
01
January 1, 2026
New Year's Day Date in France
Date
January 1, 2026
Day
Thursday
Public Holiday
Yes
Bank Holiday
Yes
Date Confirmed
Yes
New Year's Day Dates in France
New Year's Day 2026
- Confirmed
New Year's Day 2027
- Confirmed
New Year's Day 2028
- Confirmed
History of New Year's Day
Jour de l’An is France’s civil New Year observance on 1 January. It follows réveillon on New Year’s Eve and begins the Gregorian calendar year.
Importance of New Year's Day
The date starts the civil year and closes the main year-end celebration period. Its Labour Code listing affects public schedules, while private employment treatment remains subject to the applicable rules.
How New Year's Day Is Celebrated in France
After New Year’s Eve dinners and celebrations, 1 January is commonly quieter and centred on rest, greetings and time with family or friends.
Office Impact
Many government offices close for Jour de l’An. 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 l’An, 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 New Year's Day in France?
It is observed on 1 January.
What is the French holiday name?
The relevant French term is Jour de l’An.
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.