Assumption, Ascension, but also, and above all, Easter. For many, especially the youngest, Easter is synonymous with chocolate treats. But for others, especially Christians, it's the most important day in their religious calendar.
On Easter Sunday, Christians commemorate the resurrection of Jesus, i.e. Christ's passage from death to life after his crucifixion. For Protestants and Catholics, Easter is celebrated on the Sunday following the full spring moon.
But why is Easter Monday a public holiday, and what do we celebrate on this day? In theory, nothing special. To understand theorigins of the Easter Monday holiday, we need to go back in time to the Middle Ages. It was then that the eight days following Easter Sunday, known asthe "Octave of Easter", were entirely public holidays. A week off with masses celebrated every day, during which pilgrims had time to make the round trip to Rome.
But this holiday week disappeared in 1801, following the signing of the Concordat between the Pope and Napoleon Bonaparte, then First Consul. Only Easter Monday remained a public holiday. An extra day on the calendar of public holidays in France, and one that we're very happy about!
In 2025, Easter Monday falls on April 21. So, for many, it's a chance to enjoy a long weekend and a great program.
What to do for Easter 2025 in Paris and the Ile-de-France region? Ideas for outings
Looking for ideas for Easter weekend outings in Paris and the Ile-de-France region? Between egg hunts, chocolate creations, entertainment and Easter vacations, here's what's in store for you this year in the Paris region. [Read more]
Monday April 21, 2025 is Easter Monday, and therefore a public holiday. To make the most of this day off, or even the long weekend, we've put together a few ideas for outings in Paris and the Ile-de-France region. [Read more]
What to do for Easter 2025 in Paris and the Ile-de-France region? Ideas for outings
What to do this Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, in Paris and Ile-de-France, good ideas
