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Fête du Travail: What's Open & Closed on May 1st in France
Planning your activities for May 1st in France? The Fête du Travail (Labour Day) is a significant public holiday, meaning many businesses operate on reduced hours or remain closed. This guide clarifies what to expect, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable day.
Transportation
Île-de-France public transport runs on a Sunday schedule, with reduced frequency. Expect potential disruptions near protest routes. Check your local transport provider for specific details.
What's Open?
- Parks and Gardens: All Parisian parks remain open.
- Some Markets: Check individual market websites; some (like Marché Saint-Eustache) are open, others aren't.
- Carrousel du Louvre: This underground shopping centre is open.
- Cinemas: Pathé and UGC cinemas remain open.
- Selected Museums: While many major museums close, several smaller ones (Musée du Chocolat, Grévin, etc.) remain open. Check individual websites.
- Some Small Shops: Smaller shops might open depending on staffing. Check store websites for confirmation.
- Fast Food Restaurants: McDonald's, Burger King, KFC, etc., are likely to be open.
- Florists: Most will be open, selling traditional muguet (lily of the valley).
What's Closed?
- Hypermarkets and Supermarkets: Most large chains (Carrefour, Leclerc, etc.) are closed.
- Bakeries: Legally required to close, unless they meet strict exceptions; fines are steep for non-compliance.
- Most Shopping Centres: Les Halles, Galeries Lafayette, etc., are usually closed.
- Gyms and Pools: Mostly closed; check individual facilities.
- Pharmacies: Many have limited hours; check for pharmacies de garde (on-call pharmacies).
- Restaurants: Many close, although some, particularly fast food, remain open. Call ahead to confirm.
Remember to check individual business websites or call ahead to confirm opening times, as rules can vary.
