Every July 14, Paris celebrates Bastille Day (known as La Fête de la Bastille or La Fête Nationale in French), which marks the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789 and the first major event of the French Revolution of 1789.
The destruction of the Bastille prison in central Paris was chosen as a symbol of France’s early democracy movements, although it would take several reestablished monarchies and bloody revolutions to establish a lasting Republic.
Similar in spirit to United States Independence Day or Canada Day, Bastille Day is a festive event that splashes fireworks and patriotic processions throughout Paris. It’s a great way to enjoy some outdoor summer parades and a laid-back atmosphere while learning more about (and participating in) French and Parisian history.
Events and celebrations
Bastille Day celebrations in 2018 take place not only on July 14, but also in the days leading up to the national holiday. For a complete guide to this year’s special events, including parades and celebrations, check out the city’s official website. Also, scroll down for information on traditional activities and festivals held during the holidays.
The party and its history
Read this helpful guide to the French public holiday and you will have the vocabulary you really need to incorporate the Fête Nationale (national holiday) in an authentic and fully native way! After all, knowing something about the local language is a good way to learn about the culture itself.
How to celebrate the holidays elsewhere
Can’t be in Paris for this fun occasion? Don’t worry: there are many other places around the world where you can bring the national holiday of France.
Photos of Bastille Day, past and present
Want to get a more visual idea of how Bastille Day celebrations and ceremonies unfold in the city of light? Take a look at these Bastille Day images for images from the original Bastille era in 1789. Having a good understanding of the history will allow you to enjoy the holidays even more.
Traditional Bastille Day activities
- Fireworks are almost always on the menu at Bastille Day celebrations in the French capital and usually light up the skies as night falls. Often launched in the vicinity of the Eiffel Tower, the Saint Germain des Près district and around Montparnasse, fireworks can be enjoyed from other locations in the city, provided you are high enough to get a good vantage point . Some suggested points are the vantage point from the roof of the Center Georges Pompidou, Montmartre or Belleville.
- The Bal du 14 juillet is a giant dance party traditionally held on the Place de la Bastille (where the raided prison once stood) the night before Bastille Day (July 13). A different theme is chosen each year, usually providing an opportunity to don elaborate costumes and listen to live music.
- A traditional military parade on the Champs Elysees begins near the Arc de Triomphe on the famous avenue on the afternoon of July 14 and runs through Paris. A touching tribute, or pomp and circumstance? A matter of taste.
- Galas Firefighters: France has a unique, and decidedly peculiar, tradition of firefighters who open their doors to the general public on the 13th and 14th of July on the occasion of Bastille Day, offering live demonstrations and dancing. Guaranteed kitschy fun. Donations are usually requested at the door.
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