Ascension bridge

10 fresh ideas for enjoying the Ascension Day holiday this Thursday, May 14, in Paris

This Thursday, May 14, 2026, is Ascension Day, a public holiday. For some, it’s a day off, and for others it’s even a long weekend. If you’re looking for something to do that breaks from the ordinary, here are 10 quirky activities or unusual outings that could shake you out of your daily routine.

Ascension 2026: Stores & shopping centers open Thursday, May 14, in Paris & Île-de-France

For Ascension Day, department stores and shopping centers in Paris and the Île-de-France region sometimes adjust their hours. Here’s a quick guide to openings and hours to know to plan your shopping day this Thursday, May 14, 2026.

Ascension Weekend 2026: red and black days ahead for Bison Futé, a forecast update

Ascension Day long weekend is shaping up to be particularly tough for drivers across France. Bison Futé foresees heavy traffic from Wednesday, May 13, 2026, through Sunday, May 17. Here are the detailed forecasts and tips to avoid the jams.

Why is Ascension Day a public holiday in France? Origins and history

Ascension Day is one of the major religious celebrations for Christians. But do you know why this day, which falls on May 14 this year, is a public holiday in France? Here's the story and the origins of Ascension.

Opening of Parc Astérix: What's new for 2026, including the new Egypt zone

The Parc Astérix in Oise is set to reopen on April 4, 2026, boasting some exciting new features. This season's highlights include transforming the Egypt area, introducing new rides, and offering a packed program full of fun for visitors of all ages.

Ascension 2026: Are Children Making a Bridge This Year?

This spring, Ascension Thursday falls on May 14, 2026, sparking some the desire to escape. But by the way, do children get a long weekend? Is school canceled on Friday, May 15? We've got the answers for you.

The Toutatis Festival at Parc Astérix

Toutatis is the name of the crazy roller coaster that has opened at Parc Astérix, a ride that stretches over a kilometer, speeds up to 107 km/h and climbs to a height of 51 meters. But that's not all, as a whole area opens up to us, complete with playground, family ride and restaurant. We tell you all about it, and show you the images from the official inauguration of the zone, in the company of sponsors Philippe Lacheau, Elodie Fontan, Julien Arruti and Reem Kherici.

Pools open this Thursday, May 18, 2023, Ascension Day

What if we went to the pool this Thursday, May 18, 2023? It's a holiday, the swimming pools are closed, you might say... And no, we can still take a dip, bathe and swim in this day off, discover the good plans that the capital reserves for us.

Ascension Day: trips outside your department allowed for the weekend

Jean Castex, aka the government’s “Mister Deconfinement”, recommended to ban trips outside your department for the Ascension weekend starting this Thursday May 21st, 2020 in order to limit to “massively take coronavirus to areas where it is not highly active so far”. A recommendation swept away by the executive.