How to Learn French: 5) Culture – Holidays and Festivals

Daniel Jan 19

Welcome to the fifth episode of our “French words and lessons series: How to learn French easily”. In this episode, we will immerse ourselves in the vibrant French culture, exploring the language associated with holidays and festivals that are integral parts of French tradition and lifestyle.

Major Holidays in France

Noël (Christmas): This is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ and is traditionally a time for family gatherings with grand feasts.
Pâques (Easter): Marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ, it’s often celebrated with church visits and Easter egg hunts.
La Toussaint (All Saints’ Day): This is a day dedicated to remembering the deceased. People often visit cemeteries to honor their loved ones.
La Fête Nationale (Bastille Day): This is France’s National Day, celebrated on 14th July, marking the storming of the Bastille during the French Revolution.

These holidays play an essential role in French culture and knowing the associated French words can enhance your cultural understanding.

Festive Phrases

Knowing how to wish your friends during these holidays in French is an important part of language learning. Here are some festive phrases:

Joyeux Noël! (Merry Christmas!)
Bonne année! (Happy New Year!)
Joyeuses Pâques! (Happy Easter!)
Bonne Fête! (Happy Holiday!)

Celebrations That Define French Culture

Along with these major holidays, there are other traditional celebrations that embody French culture:

Carnaval (Carnival): A pre-Lent festival celebrated with parades, dances, and vibrant costumes.
Fête de la Musique (Music Festival): Held on 21st June, this festival celebrates music with free concerts and performances in parks, streets, and squares across France.
Fête des Voisins (Neighbors’ Day): A day to celebrate community spirit and strengthen bonds with neighbors.

Key Vocabulary to Describe Festivities

Here are some French words that will help you describe the various elements of these festivals:

Défilé (parade): Large processions or marches, often with music and vibrant displays.
Feu d’artifice (fireworks): Spectacular displays of lights and sounds in the sky.
Cadeau (gift): Items given as presents during celebrations.
Fête (party): A social gathering to celebrate a special event.

Let’s Practice

Now, let’s put these words into practice with a conversation about French culture:

A: Qu’est-ce que tu fais pour la Fête Nationale? (What are you doing for Bastille Day?)
B: Je vais voir le défilé et les feux d’artifice. (I’m going to see the parade and the fireworks.)

Continued practice with these French words will enhance your understanding of French culture and help you participate in cultural discussions. In the next episode, we will delve into professional life and learn how to talk about careers in French. À la prochaine!

How to Learn French: 6) Work - Talking about Careers

How to Learn French: 5) Culture – Holidays and Festivals

Major Holidays in France

Festive Phrases

Celebrations That Define French Culture

Key Vocabulary to Describe Festivities

Let’s Practice

How to Learn French: 6) Work - Talking about Careers

How to Learn French: 4) Shopping: French Words for Clothes and Accessories

How to Learn French: 3) Food: French Words for Ordering in a Restaurant