What is the name of New Year’s Eve in France, where celebrations often include champagne?

New Year’s Eve in France is commonly called Saint-Sylvestre.

The name refers to Saint Sylvester I, whose feast day falls on 31 December in the Western Christian calendar. French speakers may also simply say le réveillon de la Saint-Sylvestre for the festive New Year’s Eve meal or réveillon. Champagne, sparkling wine, elaborate dinners, and midnight greetings are strongly associated with the occasion.

French celebrations can be private dinners, gatherings with friends, restaurant events, or public festivities. Paris has often been a major focus, with crowds gathering around landmarks such as the Champs-Élysées or the Eiffel Tower, although official arrangements can change from year to year.

Saint-Sylvestre should not be confused with Bastille Day, France’s national holiday on 14 July. It is also distinct from Christmas Eve, called réveillon de Noël. In French usage, réveillon describes a celebratory late meal, so the context identifies which holiday is meant.