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Topics > French (Grade 4 to 6) > Holidays and Celebrations

Holidays and Celebrations in French

Discover the vibrant world of holidays and celebrations in French with our grade 4-6 kids' resource. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural traditions, festivals, and special events.  

Understanding the cultural significance of holidays and celebrations is important for immersing yourself in French culture and traditions. In this lesson, we will explore popular French holidays and learn about the customs, traditions, and vocabulary associated with these festive occasions. Let's dive into the fascinating world of French holidays and celebrations!

Popular French Holidays

  • La Fête Nationale (lah fet na-see-oh-nal) - Bastille Day (July 14th)
  • Noël (noh-ehl) - Christmas (December 25th)
  • Pâques (pahk) - Easter
  • La Saint-Valentin (lah sah(n)-vah-lan-tan) - Valentine's Day (February 14th)
  • La Fête du Travail (lah fet dew tra-vee) - Labor Day (May 1st)
  • La Fête de la Musique (lah fet duh lah moo-zeek) - Music Day (June 21st)
  • Le Carnaval (luh kahr-nah-val) - Carnival

Customs and Traditions


  • La Galette des Rois (lah gah-let day rwa) - King's Cake (Epiphany tradition)
  • Les Feux d'artifice (lay fuh dar-tee-sees) - Fireworks (Bastille Day)
  • La Chasse aux œufs (lah shahs oh zœf) - Easter Egg Hunt (Easter)
  • L'échange des cadeaux (lay-shahnj day kah-doh) - Gift exchange (Christmas)
  • Le défilé (luh day-fee-lay) - Parade (Carnival)

Vocabulary for Holidays and Celebrations


  • Joyeux Noël! (zhwa-yuh noh-ehl) - Merry Christmas!
  • Bonne Année! (bohn ah-nay) - Happy New Year!
  • Bonne fête! (bohn fet) - Happy celebration!
  • Félicitations! (fay-lee-see-tah-see-oh(n)) - Congratulations!
  • Vive la France! (veev lah frah(n)s) - Long live France!

Traditional Foods and Drinks


  • La bûche de Noël (lah byoosh duh noh-ehl) - Yule log cake (Christmas)
  • Les crêpes (lay krehp) - Crepes (Candlemas)
  • Le vin chaud (luh va(n) sho) - Mulled wine (Christmas)
  • La galette des Rois (lah gah-let day rwa) - King's cake (Epiphany)

Cultural Significance

Learn about the cultural significance and historical background of each holiday or celebration. Understand the traditions and customs associated with them and how they are celebrated in different regions of France.


Next: Culture and Traditions in French

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