2019 Holidays - France

France Public Holiday Observance Rules

1. When a Public Holiday Falls on a Weekend

- Unlike some countries, France does not provide a replacement holiday if a public holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday.

- However, employers may choose to grant additional leave depending on company policies.

2. When a Public Holiday Falls on a Saturday

- No automatic compensatory leave is given.

- Some employers may allow employees to take time off on the previous Friday or following Monday.

3. When a Public Holiday Falls on a Sunday

- No replacement holiday is granted.

- However, for May 1st (Labour Day), which is a mandatory paid holiday, some exceptions may apply for employees required to work.

4. Bridge Holidays (Ponts)

- France has a well-known system of "ponts" (bridge holidays), where an extra day off is given if a holiday falls on a Tuesday or Thursday.

- Employees may take the preceding Monday or following Friday off to create a long weekend, often negotiated with employers.

- Schools and public sector workers commonly observe these bridge holidays.

5. Special Cases for Public Holidays

- May 1st (Labour Day): The only legally required paid holiday. Only essential workers (police, medical staff) may be required to work, with double pay.

- Alsace-Moselle Region: In this region, Good Friday and December 26th (St. Stephen’s Day) are additional public holidays due to historical agreements.

- Bastille Day (July 14th): National holiday with parades and official ceremonies, but no extra time off if it falls on a weekend.

6. Additional Notes

- France does not officially move public holidays to weekdays, so they remain fixed on their calendar date.

- Many private-sector employees may have contracts specifying additional paid holidays based on industry agreements.

- The government announces public holidays well in advance, but local observances may vary.