The French National Day Commemorates two major events – the taking of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, and the Federation Day on the same date but the following year. Bastille Day is the symbol of the dismissal of the absolute monarchy in France while the Federation Day marks the nation getting united around the French Republic, though it is less known. Thus, July 14 has become a public holiday in France since 1880, and ever since it's celebrated in a grand way.
Impressive fireworks
The spectacular fireworks in the major French cities such as Paris, Marseille, Lille, Lyon and Toulouse are a centuries-old tradition. If you're living in Tours, Carcassonne, Valenciennes, Biarritz or Nantes, rest assured – there's something for you as well.
Of course, Paris is the place to be on the night of July 14. The capital city, also known as the City of Lights, is world famous for its fireworks show at the Esplanade du Trocadéro. Every year, it features a particular theme, so if you want to discover this year's theme, try to be there before 11 pm. To give you a sneak peek of what is going to happen, the Olympic colours will be displayed to pay tribute to sports and support Paris' candidacy for the 2024 edition of the Olympic Games.
On a different note, a one-minute silence will be held in memory of last year's victims of Nice's terrorist attack.
However, if you don't feel like mingling with the big crowds, you can still be part of the celebrations and enjoy the views of the ligthen up night sky. In fact, many people will be watching the fireworks from the Montparnasse Tower terrace, the Trocadero Gardens, and the Belleville Park in the east of Paris. The Butte Montmartre and the roof of the Grande Arche de la Defense, which are in the famous business district, are other ideal places for excellent views.
In all cases, make sure to be there long before the show begins, or you may struggle to walk through the crowd and find your spot. Perhaps you can make a dinner reservation close by, and secure yourself a good spot a couple of hours in advance, before other curious minds start to rush. After all, if it's not possible to be physically present, you can still watch the fireworks live on national TV channels, though the experience might be somehow shallow.
Traditional military parades
If you're around, the yearly traditional military parade is definitely not to be missed. A mesmerising procession – comprising of different military corps – will march along the Champs-Élysées Avenue before the gathered crowd. The French President of the Republic, the Prime Minister, and other members of the parliament and diplomatic representatives will also be in the audience accompanied by foreign Ambassadors in France. Smaller parades also take place in other big cities across the country.
Music and other cultural events
The big celebratory events – the fireworks and the military parade – are held in Paris, but if you're looking for cultural events, other major cities may take the lead. Popular balls are not to be missed, especially if you are in a provincial city where you will be welcomed by a warm and vibrant environment. People will be singing and dancing not only to traditional songs but also to French and international pop songs, jazz, rap and electro. This year, the French DJ and songwriter David Guetta and French rapper Maître Gims will set the stage on fire in Toulouse.
Don't forget to revise the Marseillaise lyrics, but if you can't remember all of them, maybe you can just join in by humming to avoid feeling awkward when everyone else around is singing from their heart. However, an interesting way to learn the national anthem is perhaps by listening to its reggae version sung by famous singer Serge Gainsbourg.
It's also worth knowing that some balls are actually held on the National Day's Eve, so you can sleep till late the next day and make the most of your day off work! Those that are held on July 14 are likely to start around 1 pm till very late at night.
Other informal celebrations
There is no particular fest associated to July 14. However, the French never miss an opportunity to celebrate over a nice meal and fine wine. Many of them will be planning special dinners with friends or family on this occasion.
If nothing is happening in your area or if your friends have not planned anything this year maybe you can just stroll along the streets and find the nearest cafe or park. You will definitely come across some people sharing a bite or having a drink and cheering to the National Day.
After all, isn't that what the French way of life is all about? Simple and beautiful!
