France, a proud secular republic since 1905, observes several public holidays that are deeply rooted in Catholicism, illustrating its complex relationship with religious history. Approximately half of the public holidays are based on Catholic festivals such as Easter and Christmas. The secular laws prohibit government funding for religious institutions, yet freedom of worship is allowed in private life. An exception exists in Alsace-Moselle, where additional Catholic holidays are recognized, reflecting regional historical ties to Germany and Catholicism despite the overarching secular principles of the French Republic.
Many public holidays in France are linked to Catholic celebrations, which are a reminder of its religious history, despite the nation's proud secular principles.
France's secular stance is rooted in the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen of 1789 and was codified into law in 1905.
The French Republic does not finance any religion, reflecting its secularism, and allows freedom of worship in private life.
In Alsace-Moselle, the rules differ as the region retains Catholic public holidays like Good Friday and St Stephen's Day, exceptions to the general secular laws.
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