fêtes

Fête (plural fêtes) is a term used in French-speaking communities to denote a public or private celebration, festival, or holiday. The word derives from Old French fete, from Latin festum, meaning feast or festival. In everyday usage, fête can refer to a party as well as a formal public celebration.

Fêtes can be religious or secular, public or private, and may commemorate saints, historical events, harvests, or seasonal markers. They are often organized by municipalities, religious institutions, associations, or families and can be annual or one-off.

Common features include music, dancing, food and drink, markets or fairs, decorations, parades, games, and sometimes religious services or fireworks. They strengthen community bonds and can have economic benefits through tourism and local commerce.

Examples and scope: The concept is widespread in Francophone cultures, including France, Belgium, Switzerland, and Canada. Notable types include patronal fêtes (saint's day), national or regional holidays such as Fête nationale (France) or Fête nationale du Québec, and culturally oriented events like Fête de la Musique. The term is also used for birthdays or parties in casual speech.