As France prepares for its third public holiday of May 2025, the Ascension long weekend promises to be both an opportunity for leisure and potential challenges related to closures and travel disruptions.
Ascension Day falls on Thursday, May 29th, and celebrates the Christian belief in the ascension of Jesus into heaven, occurring 40 days after Easter Sunday. This day off provides a chance for many to extend their weekend by taking advantage of annual leave on Friday, resulting in a delightful four-day break.
During this holiday, public services including banks, schools, and municipal offices will be closed. Smaller shops may have reduced hours or may close entirely for the day, and it’s common for these establishments to advertise their holiday hours in advance. Larger supermarkets are likely to remain open but with limited capacity, while major tourist attractions like the Louvre and Eiffel Tower are set to welcome visitors.
The increase in holiday travel means busier roads, airports, and tourist sites. Previous discussions should be noted regarding protests, particularly by taxi drivers. While there have been negotiations aiming to quell disruptions, it remains crucial for travelers to stay informed as these protests could result in road blockades or slowdowns, particularly near airports.
Traffic authorities predict heightened congestion, designating Wednesday and Thursday as “red” days for travel. Unfortunately, some key routes are likely to experience significant delays, particularly around major cities. Travelers are advised to plan their journeys around peak times: for Wednesday, leaving or passing through the Paris region is recommended either early in the morning or late at night, while Thursday suggests early departures before 5 am or after 4 pm.
The situation looks hopeful for some reprieve on Friday, with clearer roads expected. However, return journeys on Sunday are anticipated to be especially heavy, leading to advisories against travel during the busiest late afternoon and evening hours.
Weather forecasts indicate a potential for overcast skies and rain during the earlier part of the week, but sunny conditions are expected by Friday. However, a return of stormy weather is possible over the weekend, particularly in the southeast.
This year’s Ascension long weekend may involve a blend of activities and preparations for both relaxation and navigating through the anticipated crowd and traffic. Those planning to join the festivities should remain vigilant and flexible, ensuring a safe and enjoyable holiday experience.