What to do on Bastille Day in Paris?
Bonne fête nationale!
If you find yourself in France on July 14th, you’re in for a treat as it’s Bastille Day, known as la Fête nationale in French. This special day commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison on July 14, 1789, a pivotal event that marked the beginning of the French Revolution. In English, it’s commonly referred to as Bastille Day, named after the iconic prison, while in French, it’s known as le 14 juillet or la Fête de la Bastille. It’s a day of immense pride and celebration for the French people, symbolizing their commitment to liberty, equality, and fraternity.
If you are in Paris this year for it, I have included below some ideas for you. These events happen every year, so if you’re planning to come for next July, then save this for later!
What to do on Bastille Day:
Dance with Firefighters:
Bastille Day celebrations kick off on the evening of July 13th with the Bals des Pompiers (Firemen’s Ball). Local fire stations organize evening dances. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the festive spirit and celebrate the national holiday like a local! Most dances start at 9 PM, but make sure to check your local fire station for specific details and schedule.
Military Parade + Flyover:
The military parade commences at 10 AM at the Arc de Triomphe. Around 10:30 AM, military planes soar across Paris, leaving a trail of the French flag—an awe-inspiring sight! If you find yourself between the Grande Arche de la Défense and Champs-Elysées, you can witness the military planes in action.
Note that the Champs-Elysées can get quite crowded during the military parade, and this year, there may be restrictions due to Covid. If you prefer to focus on the military flyover, you can watch it from various locations in the city. Excellent spots include the Tuileries Garden or the Grande Arche de la Défense.
Visit Museums:
On Bastille Day, many museums offer free entry, including the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Versailles! Take advantage of this opportunity, especially if the weather isn’t ideal for outdoor activities.
Enjoy All Things French:
It’s customary to see people picnicking, playing pétanque, and indulging in the best of French cuisine and drinks. So why not celebrate like the French do? Grab some delectable treats from a patisserie in the morning (note that some may close around midday on Bastille Day) and head to one of the enchanting French parks or gardens to enjoy your goodies. Check out our blog post here with allll the tips for your perfect Paris picnic!
Watch the Fireworks:
The highlight of Bastille Day is undoubtedly the magnificent fireworks display at the Eiffel Tower. It begins at 11 PM and lasts for about 30 minutes. Prior to the display, the National France Orchestra treats the audience to a splendid symphony concert at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, starting at 9:15 PM. Please be aware that a Covid health pass is likely required this year, and entry to the park may take longer. If you plan to attend, I recommend arriving early!
The best vantage points for the fireworks are at Champs de Mars or near Trocadéro, although these places tend to get very crowded, so securing a spot requires arriving much earlier. Other excellent options include along the Seine River, in the Tuileries Garden, and, of course, if you can reserve a spot at a rooftop bar or restaurant near the Eiffel Tower, that would be ideal!
Bastille Day is a vibrant and significant celebration in France. Whether you’re in Paris or any other part of the country, there are numerous ways to immerse yourself in the festive spirit and experience the rich cultural heritage of France. From dancing with firefighters at the Bals des Pompiers to witnessing the awe-inspiring military parade and flyover, there are exciting events for everyone to enjoy. Don’t forget to take advantage of free museum entry and indulge in the delights of French cuisine and picnics in beautiful parks. Finally, the grand finale of the day is the spectacular fireworks display at the Eiffel Tower, a sight that should not be missed. Bastille Day is a time to celebrate the values of freedom and unity, and I hope these suggestions help you have a memorable and joyful Bastille Day celebration. Vive la France!
