Contact us on WhatsApp: +33 6 95 73 52 90

How to celebrate Bastille Day in France

By Jean
Reading Time: 3 minutes
Bastille day in France

Bastille Day, known as La Fête Nationale, is one of France’s most significant public holidays, celebrated on July 14th each year. It marks the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789, a pivotal event in the French Revolution. This day is a vibrant mix of historical commemoration, patriotic display, and joyous celebration. If you’re planning to be in France for Bastille Day, here’s how you can make the most of this remarkable holiday.

Historical Significance

Bastille Day is not just about fireworks and parades; it’s a celebration deeply rooted in history. Understanding the significance of the day adds a layer of appreciation to the festivities. The Storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, marked the beginning of the French Revolution, as Parisians seized the fortress, symbolizing the overthrow of the oppressive monarchy. This event galvanized revolutionary fervour, leading to the fall of absolute monarchy and the establishment of the French Republic, and is now celebrated as France’s National Day, symbolizing liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Today, Bastille Day celebrates the values of liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Bastille day in France

The Grand Military Parade on the Champs-Élysées

The festivities kick off with a grand military parade on the Champs-Élysées in Paris. This event is a magnificent display of French military might and tradition. The parade begins at the Arc de Triomphe and proceeds down the Champs-Élysées to Place de la Concorde. Attended by the President of the Republic and other dignitaries, the parade features soldiers, tanks, and an aerial show by the Patrouille de France.

Tips for Attending the Parade:
  • Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
  • Use public transport as many roads will be closed.
  • Bring water and snacks, as the event can be lengthy.

Bastille day in France

Fireworks at the Eiffel Tower

No Bastille Day celebration is complete without the spectacular fireworks display at the Eiffel Tower. As the sun sets, the sky above Paris lights up with a dazzling array of colours. The fireworks are choreographed to music, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

Best Viewing Spots:
  • Champ de Mars: The large park in front of the Eiffel Tower offers an unobstructed view.
  • Trocadéro: The elevated platform across the Seine provides a panoramic vista.
  • Montmartre: For a more distant but equally beautiful view, head to the steps of the Sacré-Cœur.

Bastille day in France

Local Celebrations Across France

While Paris hosts the most famous events, Bastille Day is celebrated all over France. Each region adds its unique flavour to the festivities. Here are a few notable ones:

Provence

In Provence, the day is marked by village feasts and traditional dances. The locals gather in town squares to enjoy live music, food, and drink, embodying the spirit of French joie de vivre.

Normandy

Normandy commemorates Bastille Day with a mix of historical reenactments and modern celebrations. In towns like Rouen and Caen, you can witness parades, fireworks, and concerts.

French Riviera

The glamorous French Riviera offers beach parties and firework displays. Cities like Nice and Cannes have their unique celebrations that blend luxury with tradition.

Participating in Local Festivities

Joining in local festivities is a fantastic way to experience French culture firsthand. Here are some activities you can enjoy:

  • Bal des Pompiers (Firemen’s Ball): Many fire stations open their doors to the public on the night of July 13th and 14th, hosting lively dances and parties.
  • Community Picnics: In many towns and cities, people gather for communal picnics in parks and public spaces. These gatherings are a great way to meet locals and share in the festive spirit.
  • Live Music and Dance: Public concerts and dance performances are common, ranging from classical music to contemporary bands.

Whether you’re in Paris for the grand parade and fireworks or exploring local festivities in other regions, you’ll find that the spirit of liberty, equality, and fraternity is alive all across France on this very special day. Embrace the opportunity to participate in this vibrant celebration and create lasting memories.

Share this article

Go! Go! France

Search articles

Popular posts

DO YOU WANT TO LIVE AND STUDY IN FRANCE?

We at Go! Go! France are all about turning your dreams of living and studying in France into reality!

Go! Go! France Blog

Related articles

Applying for a visa to live and study in France can feel overwhelming, but that’s where Go! Go! France comes in. Our team is here to simplify the process, making it easier and stress-free for you. Check your visa requirements Do you need a visa to live and study in France? It depends on your...
Studying in France requires careful financial planning and an understanding of various costs associated with living and studying in the country. Whether you plan to stay for a short-term or long-term period, this article will explain the financial requirements you need to meet. Do you need a visa to study in France It depends on...
Whether through language, cuisine, or tradition, French people have perfected the ways in which they express affection. In this guide, we’ll explore the various ways in which French people express love, allowing you to embrace the charm of romance in France. Verbal expressions of love Vocabulary to express love French English Example Mon amour My...
La Chandeleur, also known as Candlemas, is a traditional French holiday celebrated annually on February 2nd, exactly 40 days after Christmas. In this article, you’ll learn about the history of this day, its customs, and how the French celebrate it. Historical background La Chandeleur blends pagan and Christian traditions. Originally linked to the Roman festival...
The Carnival of Nice, celebrated annually, is a vibrant festival held over approximately 15 days in February or March. The carnival is renowned for its extravagant parades and thematic events that draw thousands of visitors to the French Riviera each year. Historical roots The Carnival of Nice, dating back to 1294, began as a local...

Contact us

Any questions? We are here to help