Happy Ascension Day

Today is a public holiday in France as it is Ascension Day.

Ascension Day is the 40th day of Easter. It occurs 39 days after Easter Sunday. It is a Christian holiday that commemorates Jesus Christ's ascension into heaven, according to Christian belief. 

Ascension Day is one of the earliest Christian festivals, dating back to the year 68. According to the New Testament in the Bible, Jesus Christ met several times with his disciples during the 40 days after his resurrection to instruct them on how to carry out his teachings. It is believed that on the 40th day he took them to the Mount of Olives, where they watched as he ascended to heaven.

As it falls on a Thursday most workers in France take Friday off  and profit from a long weekend.

In France on this day, Christians usually attend church services before enjoying a Spring day off. However this will not be possible today as large groups are not allowed in churches due to the covid-19 restrictions that apply at present but many churches will be holding a service on the internet today.

For some, the traditional food on Ascension Day is poultry but, across France, the seasonal fair is the spring foods: young lamb, asparagus, avocado and romaine salad, new-potato salad, mushroom soups, apricots, figs and citrus. 

If the weather is fine, people normally take their lunches to the parks in their towns or cities. There are other events like bike tours across the countryside and sporting events, and some villages hold their own local, cultural festivals.

Unfortunately many of these events have been cancelled but I am sure the French people will still mark this important day in some way or another.

Happy Ascension Day and remember to stay safe ♥, 

Leeann x