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Archive for the 'French Culture' Category

How To Post In Perfect French on Social Media

You're learning to speak French, and it's going well. Your confidence is growing! So much so that you feel ready to share your experiences on social media—in French. At Learn French, we make this easy for you to get it right the first time. Post like a boss with these phrases and guidelines, and get to practice your French in the process. 1. Talking about Your Restaurant Visit in French Eating out is fun, and often an experience you'd like to share. Take a pic, and start a conversation on social media in French. Your friend will be amazed by your language skills...and perhaps your taste in restaurants! François eats at a restaurant with his friends, posts an image of it, and leaves this comment: POST Let's break down François's... Show more

Apologize in French: How to Say Sorry in French

“An apology is the super glue of life. It can repair just about anything.” (Lynn Johnston) Whatever our reasons are, it’s never easy nor pleasant to apologize. Even in our native language where we can express all the subtleties needed to tone things down and smooth off the rough edges, “Sorry” still seems to be the hardest word. Now, imagine you have to offer your apologies in another language, like French. Would you know how to say “sorry” in French? Of course, you won’t want to risk any further mishap or an unfortunate choice of words that could put you in a tougher spot. Learning how to say “sorry” in French will not only help you go through delicate situations when you’ve made a mistake or behaved poorly. It will also provide you... Show more

Celebrating Assumption Day in France

On Assumption Day, France celebrates the rising of Mary, the mother of Jesus, into Heaven. For this reason, it’s often called Assumption of Mary Day. The Assumption Holy Day reflects the strong Catholic nature of France, being one of the most popular and heavily celebrated holidays in the country. Even non-Catholics like to participate in the fun, often as a final party before the end of summer. Learn all about The Assumption of Mary Feast Day with FrenchPod101.com, and become more familiar with French culture as a whole. We hope to make this learning journey both fun and informative! 1. What is Assumption Day? Assumption celebrates Jesus's mother, Mary, rising up to Heaven. As such, the French also recognize... Show more

End of the French Revolution: Bastille Day in France

Each year, the French commemorate the end of the French Revolution and the storming of the Bastille fortress. Called Bastille Day everywhere but France itself, this holiday is France’s national day and possibly the most significant public holiday in the country. By learning about Bastille Day, France’s history and culture will become more clear to you. And as any successful language-learner can tell you, studying culture is a step you can’t miss if you hope to master the beautiful French language. At FrenchPod101.com, we hope to make this learning experience both fun and effective! 1. What is Bastille Day? The nation remembers the storming of the Bastille (otherwise known as the Bastille Day attack) on this holiday, which... Show more

Fête de la Musique: Celebrating World Music Day in France

In France, ninety-seven percent of French people know about Fête de la musique ("World Music Day")! On World Make Music Day (or simply Make Music Day), France celebrates music and encourages anyone and everyone to create music, along with many other countries. This is the most characteristic aspect of World Music Day: It encourages absolutely everyone to do some music; anyone can sing or play an instrument, alone or in a band, in public spaces. Hence the wide range of styles and talents during the Fête de la musique French festivals. World Music Day in France is a prime example of how a country’s holidays can reveal what its people hold near to their hearts. And any successful language learner can tell you that comprehending a... Show more

Fête de Voisins: Celebrating National Neighbor Day in France

National Neighbor Day in France (or Fête de Voisins as voisin is "neighbor" in French) is a day for people to spend time with their neighbors, usually in the form of a party. This is a significant concept in a world that's becoming more and more adapted to life on the screen, and where people are spending less face time with each other. It can be difficult to even muster a "hello" to fellow neighbors these days! On Neighbor's Day, France encourages its people to get together, socialize, and just appreciate each other. It's such a revolutionary type of holiday that other places around the world are beginning to celebrate it too (resulting in a European Neighbor's Day). At FrenchPod101, we hope to clue you in on what to expect should... Show more

The Best Series and TV Shows for French Learners

Many non-native English-speakers learned the language while watching popular TV shows such as Friends or Game of Thrones. This tip works just as well for other languages! Luckily, the French TV scene is bustling with great series and programs in every genre. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced French learner, you’ll find popular shows perfect for your level. All you need is access to YouTube, Netflix, and/or Amazon Prime. Here at FrenchPod101, we just love binging on quality shows. We proudly consider ourselves to be expert reviewers when it comes to French television! Here’s our top list of the best French series for learners of all levels. Pick your favorite and clear your schedule! Table of Contents For the... Show more

Lundi de Pâques: Easter Monday in France

If you know our history, you should know that France is a secular country. In 1905, a law was created to separate the Church from the State. Still, many public holidays and traditions in France have Catholic origins. And one of the most important Catholic holidays is Easter. Is Easter Monday a bank holiday in France? Yes! Easter in France, for kids especially, is a great joy! In this lesson, we're going to teach you how French people celebrate Easter. At FrenchPod101.com, we hope to make learning about French culture both fun and informative! 1. What is Easter Monday in France? Originally, Easter commemorated the resurrection of Jesus Christ and marked the end of Lent for Catholics. Lent is a period of fasting that lasts... Show more

How to Find Jobs in France — The Best Work Guide

So, you’re ready to move to France! Will you live and breathe the amazing culture of the City of Love or stroll on the sandy wonders of the Côte-d’Azur? Maybe you prefer the lush countryside of the Alsace region and long to taste the elixir of its world-famous vineyards. Or waking up in Annecy with the smell of wildflowers and breathtaking views on the Alps mountains? Whatever you seek, there’s a beautiful corner waiting for you in France. But if you want to live there, let’s put it bluntly: You’ll have to make French money! Start with a bonus, and download the Business Words & Phrases PDF for FREE! (Logged-In Member Only) Table of Contents Get Your Paperwork Ready Find the Right Job for You Job-hunting in... Show more

How to Celebrate Grandmother’s Day in France

For many, a grand-mère (“grandmother”) is a relative of unparalleled consideration and admiration. This is as true in France as it is in numerous countries around the world. Grandmother’s are so loved and respected that the French have dedicated a day just to celebrate them! By learning about Grandmother’s Day in France, you’re also glimpsing a unique aspect of the country’s culture. From the commercial origin of this holiday to how it’s celebrated today, Grandmother’s Day in France is a reflection of both history and the present. And to think it all started with coffee... Let FrenchPod101.com guide you through the details of National Grandma Day! 1. What is Grandmother’s Day in France? In France, Grandmother’s Day is... Show more