Every November 1, like many Catholic countries, France celebrates All Saints’ Day. But this festival also hides little-known meanings… Here are four facts to better understand its origins and customs.
Contrary to a stubborn belief, All Saints’ Day is not the “Day of the Dead” or “Day of the Dead”: celebrated every November 1 according to Catholic tradition, this day actually pays homage to all the Saints, as its name suggests. In the past, it was also called the “Martyrs’ Day”, for a very particular reason.
What day does All Saints’ Day fall on in 2025?
In 2025, like every year, All Saints’ Day will be celebrated on November 1st. Bad news for employees, however, this public holiday falls this time… on a Saturday. No extra leave this year, then!
But what exactly do we commemorate on All Saints’ Day?
Contrary to a tenacious belief – because it is often confused with Dia de los muertos, the “day of the dead”, celebrated mainly by the Christian community in Mexico, on November 2 – All Saints’ Day does not celebrate the deceased. For faithful Catholics and Christians, All Saints’ Day is the holiday that commemorates all Saints “who were living and luminous witnesses of Christ”, specifies the Catholic Church of France on its site. In other words, those who gave their lives for their faith. Whether known or unknown, All Saints’ Day is dedicated to them. It is also an opportunity for all men, still in this world, to remember that holiness is accessible to all. “by different paths, sometimes surprising or unexpected”.
What is the origin of All Saints’ Day?
The celebration of All Saints’ Day would find its roots in 4th century AD. At the time, in certain regions, notably within the Church of the East, in Turkey or in Egypt, this day honored the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for their faith. However, it was not celebrated on November 1, but on the Sunday after Pentecost, that is to say at the end of May. It was not until 835 that Pope Gregory IV established the date of November 1 for All Saints’ Day.
Why is All Saints’ Day a public holiday?
In France, All Saints’ Day is a public holidayrecognized among religious holidays by legislation. It was Louis the Pious, son of Charlemagne and Emperor of the West, who decided to make it a day off. Later, in 1914, Pope Pius XI made this celebration obligatory for Catholics. This holiday symbolizes the call to holiness for all believers.
Who celebrates All Saints’ Day in other countries?
All Saints’ Day is not only celebrated in France, it is also celebrated in other countries, such as in England, Spain, Italy or in many cantons of Switzerland.
- What is All Saints’ Day? Catholic Church in France. : https://eglise.catholique.fr/deeper-sa-foi/la-celebration-de-la-foi/les-grandes-fetes-chretiennes/toussaint/372346-quest-ce-que-la-toussaint/
