Public holiday

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.

Pentecost Weekend 2026: 10 fantastic exhibitions to discover in Paris on May 23–25

What are we doing this Pentecost weekend in Paris, on Saturday 23, Sunday 24 and Monday 25 May 2026? Easy: make the most of the long weekend to discover the season’s best exhibitions. Here’s a quick roundup of outings for the Pentecost weekend.

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.

Why is May 8 a public holiday in France? History and origins

A week after May Day, May 8 arrives. But do you remember why this day is also a public holiday in France? What exactly do we commemorate on May 8? We’ll explain and take a look back at the history of this landmark date.

May 1, 2026: Bison Futé’s traffic outlook for this long weekend.

In France, May Day is a public holiday. This year it falls on a Friday, offering the prospect of a long weekend. But beware—traffic jams could spoil the short break. Here are Bison Futé’s forecasts for the May 1–3, 2026 weekend.

Department stores and shopping centers open on May 8, 2026 in Paris and Île-de-France — opening hours.

Craving a bit of shopping on Friday, May 8, 2026? Numerous shopping centers and department stores in Paris and Île-de-France will stay open even on this public holiday—here’s which ones.

Why is May 1st a public holiday in France? History and origins

This year, May 1st falls on a Friday! But do you know why this day is a public holiday in France? Are you familiar with the history and origins of Labour Day, also known as International Workers’ Day? Here’s the story.

What to do with the kids on May 1, 2026? Our 10 ideas for outings on this public holiday in Paris

May is arguably the best month of the year: holidays on tap and long weekends almost every week, with the kind of weather that’s just right—neither too hot nor too cold. So, what are we doing with the kids on this May 1, 2026?

Why is Easter Monday a public holiday in France? Origins and history

This is one of the dates, if not the most important one, in the Christian religious calendar. You’ve probably guessed it: Easter. But do you know what Catholics and Protestants celebrate during this festival? And do you know why Easter Monday, which falls this year on April 6, 2026, is a public holiday? Here’s what you need to know.

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.

Atout Branches: the adventure park featuring treetop courses, climbing walls, laser tag, and escape rooms in Essonne (91)

In Milly-la-Forêt, Essonne, Atout Branches Park offers a variety of activities including tree climbing, rock climbing, escape rooms, laser tag, andUpcoming new additions in 2026 such as mini golf and forest treasure hunts. Opening on March 14, 2026, the park welcomes visitors from the age of 2 and up.

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.

Shopping malls & stores open or closed on December 25, 2025, in Paris and Île-de-France

Which stores and shopping centers in Paris and Île-de-France are open or closed on Thursday, December 25, 2025? Find the full list here.

Shopping Malls and Stores Open on January 1, 2026, in Paris and Île-de-France — Opening Hours

Which shopping centers and department stores are open or closed this Thursday, January 1, 2026, in Paris and Île-de-France? Find out the complete list here.

Shopping centers and stores open on November 11, 2025, in Paris and the Île-de-France region - opening hours

It's a public holiday, but not for shopping! Find out which shopping centers and department stores are open for business in Paris and the Île-de-France region on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.

Shopping centers and stores open on November 1, 2025, in Paris and the Île-de-France region - opening hours

Saturday, November 1, 2025, is a holiday... Let's take advantage of it to sort through our closets and complete our winter wardrobes with a shopping trip to the many stores and malls that remain open!

Why is November 11 a public holiday in France? History and origins

Every year in France, there are countless tributes and commemorations on the occasion of November 11th. But do you know why November 11th is such a historic date in France? And why is it a national holiday in France? We tell you.

Why is November 1st a public holiday? The history and origins of All Saints' Day

As in many other countries, November 1st is a public holiday in France. But do you know why All Saints' Day is not celebrated? And do you know the history and origins of this holiday? We tell you.

Why is August 15 a public holiday in France? The history and origins of the Assumption

This August 15, it's the Assumption. Alongside other feasts such as Christmas, Ascension and All Saints' Day, Assumption Day is celebrated by many Catholics every year. But do you know the history and origins of this holiday in France?

Store & shopping center opening hours on August 15, 2025 in Paris and the greater Paris region

Friday August 15, 2025 falls right in the middle of the vacation season, and you're in the mood for a little shopping? Before you grab your tote bag and head out on the town, it's best to take a look at the opening times: as a public holiday, some stores may be closed. We take a look at what will (or won't) be open in Paris and the Ile-de-France region, for shopping without unpleasant surprises.