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

Alongside Easter, the Assumption, and the All Saints’ Day, there is also Ascension, which falls this year on Thursday, May 14, 2026. Public holiday in France, we explain the origin and history of this religious festival traditionally observed 40 days after Easter Sunday. The date therefore changes every year, but it always lands on a Thursday, allowing some French people to enjoy the famous Ascension Bridge long weekend.

But what is the meaning behind this feast? The Ascension, not to be confused with the Assumption which takes place on August 15, derives from the Latin ascensio, meaning to rise up. For Christians, the Feast of the Ascension commemorates Christ’s lifting up to heaven, symbolizing eternal life. According to the Bible, Jesus, who died and rose again, ascended into heaven forty days after Easter and disappeared from the Apostles’ sight. This festival, initiated by Pope Leo the Great, has been celebrated since the 4th century.

But when did the Ascension Thursday become a public holiday and non-working day in France? That dates back to the Ancien Régime, at a time when Christian feasts paced French life.

• To be read
• Why is Pentecost Monday a special public holiday in France? Its origins and history
• Why is August 15 a public holiday in France? The history and origins of the Assumption
• Why is July 14th a national holiday in France? Origins and history of the national holiday

Note that Ascension is celebrated in many other European countries, with Spain, Portugal, and Greece notably absent from the list. This year, Ascension Thursday lands on May 14. A long weekend awaits if you can take the bridge!

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