What is New Year’s Eve called in France, after the feast day of a Roman pope?

In France, New Year’s Eve is commonly called Saint-Sylvestre, after Saint Sylvester’s feast day on December 31.

Saint Sylvester I was bishop of Rome, or pope, from 314 until his death in 335. His feast is observed on the final day of the Gregorian calendar, so the name became attached to the evening’s celebrations in France and in several other European countries. French speakers may also simply say le réveillon du Nouvel An for the New Year’s Eve meal or celebration.

The French holiday often centers on a réveillon, a long festive dinner shared with family or friends. Champagne, oysters, foie gras, and other regional foods are traditional in many celebrations, although customs vary widely. At midnight, people commonly exchange greetings and kisses rather than following one single national countdown ritual.

The name Saint-Sylvestre refers to the date and religious calendar, not to a separate French festival.