Victory Day
Nationwide public holiday in France · Fête de la Victoire
Dates
| Year | Date | Weekday | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 8 May | Friday | Nationwide |
| 2027 | 8 May | Saturday | Nationwide |
Where it applies
Everywhere in France.
Is it a day off?
Yes. It is an official public holiday, so most employees have the day off. Government offices, schools and many businesses are usually closed; shops, restaurants and public transport may keep reduced hours. Check local announcements for opening times.
Make it longer
Take Friday 7 May off and get 4 days in a row (Thu 6 May – Sun 9 May).
Plan more breaks with the leave planner.
Typical weather in Paris around 8 May: high 19°C (66°F), low 8°C (46°F), rain on 39% of days.
Averages for 2015–2024, 3 days either side of the date, for the area around Paris. Past averages, not a forecast.
Forecast for Saturday 8 May in Paris: (MET Norway)
About Victory Day
Victory Day on 8 May marks the end of the Second World War in Europe in 1945, when Nazi Germany surrendered unconditionally to the Allies. In France it commemorates the liberation of the country and honours those who fought and died, as well as the victims of the war and the occupation.
Traditions
Commemorative ceremonies are held at war memorials in towns and villages across France, with wreaths, the national anthem and a minute of silence. In Paris, the President lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier beneath the Arc de Triomphe.
Editorial summary by Public Holidays World. Dates on this page come from the data source; customs vary by region and family.
Coming up next in France
Monday, 17 May 2027
Victory Day in other countries
Belarus
Czechia
Estonia
Russia
Azerbaijan
Bangladesh
Cuba
French Guiana
French Polynesia
French Southern Territories
Guadeloupe
Kazakhstan
More for France
Holiday dates are for general information and can change. Official government announcements take precedence.