On Monday, April 21, 2025, many businesses and recreational locations in Le Havre, Seine-Maritime, will remain open for those looking to enjoy the Easter holiday. This day, known as Easter Monday, is a public holiday in France, celebrated by both Catholics and Protestants as a continuation of the Easter festivities following the resurrection of Jesus on April 20, 2025.
The tradition of Easter Monday as a public holiday dates back to the 4th century when the Roman Emperor Constantine established the Octave of Easter, extending the celebration of Christ's resurrection for eight days. This historical significance contributes to the unique observance of the day in contemporary France.
In Le Havre, several businesses will have special hours for this holiday. For instance, Docks Vauban will be open from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, while Auchan Le Havre will welcome customers from midnight until 7:00 PM. Auchan Montivilliers will operate from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM, and the La Lézarde shopping center will be open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, hosting a large clearance sale.
Other notable openings include Decathlon Le Havre, which will be open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (reduced hours compared to typical days), and Bricomarché Le Havre, which will open from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Jardinerie Desjardins in Montivilliers will also be open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
For entertainment options, cinemas such as Pathé Docks Vauban, Le Sirius, Le Studio, and Les Arts in Montivilliers will operate during their usual hours, providing a great opportunity for families to enjoy a film together. Parks, including La Fontaine Enchantée, will be open from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and the Gulli parc will welcome visitors from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Swimming facilities will also be available for leisure activities. The Bains des Docks swimming pool will be open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, while the GD’O swimming pool will have limited hours from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM and then from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM. Les Jardins Suspendus will be open in two time slots, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM and from 1:45 PM to 6:00 PM.
On the other hand, several locations will remain closed for the holiday. The Espace Coty, including its pharmacy, as well as the Musée d’Art Moderne André-Malraux and all municipal museums, will not be open on this day. Municipal libraries will also be closed, as they typically are every Monday.
As the Easter holiday draws to a close, many families in Le Havre are eager to take advantage of the beautiful spring weather. The beach at Le Havre and Sainte-Adresse offers a picturesque setting for a stroll or a relaxing day on the pebbles. The skate park and nearby playgrounds are perfect for younger visitors, while the Montgeon forest provides a lovely natural retreat with a pleasant water feature.
The public holiday of Easter Monday is not just a day for shopping and leisure; it is also steeped in historical significance. The observance of this holiday has evolved over centuries, with roots tracing back to early Christian practices. It serves as a reminder of the importance of community and family traditions, allowing people to come together and celebrate the joys of life.
Despite its historical roots, the celebration of Easter Monday also reflects modern societal dynamics. Many people in France view this day as an opportunity to unwind and enjoy time with loved ones, making it a cherished occasion in the French calendar.
In addition to the local happenings in Le Havre, the broader context of Easter celebrations in France is noteworthy. With Easter Sunday marking the resurrection of Jesus, the following Monday provides a chance for continued reflection and celebration. This dual observance is a testament to the enduring influence of Christian traditions in French culture.
Napoleon Bonaparte played a significant role in shaping the observance of Easter Monday as a public holiday. In 1801, he reduced the week-long holiday associated with the Octave of Easter to just the Monday, viewing the numerous holidays as impediments to productivity in the post-Revolutionary landscape. This decision has persisted, and today, six of the eleven public holidays in France are rooted in Christian traditions.
As the nation celebrates this important day, many are reminded of the balance between honoring historical customs and embracing modern life. The varied openings and closings of businesses reflect the complexities of balancing tradition with contemporary needs.
Overall, Monday, April 21, 2025, promises to be a lively day in Le Havre, with a mix of shopping, leisure activities, and family outings. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to take advantage of the open venues and the pleasant spring weather, making the most of this public holiday.
