Special Days

Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday,” marks the final day of carnival before Lent. Across France, cities celebrate with parades, costumes, music, and traditional treats like crêpes and beignets. Iconic carnivals include Nice with its flower battles, Dunkerque with herring tosses, and Limoux, France’s longest-running carnival. From satirical floats in Granville to student energy in Caen, Mardi Gras is a vibrant, regional festival blending history, community, and festive indulgence.

In France, “Vendredi 13” (Friday the 13th) sparks superstition, curiosity, and even hope. Rooted in Christian tradition and folklore, it’s often seen as unlucky — Jesus was crucified on a Friday, and 13 people attended the Last Supper. Yet, some French see it as lucky, especially with special lottery draws. Whether you approach it cautiously or embrace its charm, Friday the 13th in France is a mix of luck, superstition, and cultural fascination.

Le 14 juillet, France’s National Day, celebrates both the Storming of the Bastille (1789) and the Fête de la Fédération (1790). Marked by parades, fireworks, and patriotic pride, the holiday blends military ceremonies with lively community festivities. From the iconic Champs-Élysées parade in Paris to local bal des pompiers (firefighters’ balls), French towns come alive with music, dancing, and gatherings. Experience le 14 juillet like a local: Bon 14 juillet!

Celebrate love the French way with La Saint-Valentin! Observed on February 14th, Valentine’s Day in France is exclusively for couples and is known as la fête des amoureux. Discover French traditions, popular gifts like flowers, chocolates, and jewelry, plus useful phrases for shopping and romantic expressions. From candlelit dinners to simple gestures of affection, learn how to embrace Valentine’s Day in France with elegance, charm, and cultural flair.