Each July 14, France celebrates Bastille Day, or the Fête Nationale. In Paris, the national holiday is celebrated with a grand parade in the morning, a dazzling fireworks display in the evening and dance parties well into the night. What could be more festive? Download the French national anthem, “La Marseillaise” to your iPod and head to Paris for this year’s festivities.
Bastille Day commemorates the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille prison on July 14, 1789. The prison uprising was the first major step towards the French Revolution and ultimately French democracy. Today, all across France, and especially in Paris, you’ll find French revelers celebrating their history and independence.
In Paris, the holiday is kicked off with a military parade that starts at 10 a.m. at the Arc de Triomphe and continues down the Champs-Élysées all the way to the Place de la Concorde. Cadets from the École Polytechnique, Saint-Cyr, and the École Navale march in the parade, as well as the fire brigade. Aviators from the Patrouille de France also fly overhead. Those looking for a good view, and a glimpse of President Sarkozy, should plan on arriving at least two hours early – or even the night before!
The fireworks are shot off from Trocadero in the 16th arrondissement, across the Seine River from the Eiffel Tower. Crowds gather early at the Champs de Mars to picnic and claim their spot for the spectacular display, which starts around 10:30 p.m.
The festivities continue all night long in the restaurants, clubs and pubs. Expect champagne to be flowing! Want to experience the national holiday to its fullest? Stay in one of New York Habitat’s conveniently located apartments in the 1st arrondissement, near the Champs- Élysées, including:
-This airy 1-Bedroom Vacation Rental in Arc de Triomphe – Champs Elysees (PA-41). The eclectically furnished apartment features two balconies and a superb view of the Arc de Triomphe just a five-minute walk away.
– This contemporary 2-Bedroom Vacation Rental in Champs Elysees (PA-3586), located only one block away from the Champs-Elysées. The decorative fireplace, hardwood floors and large windows give this apartment an authentic Parisian charm.
There’s no better way to experience French culture than to take part in the country’s most important national holiday. And it’s not too late to book your ticket to Paris for this year’s raucous celebrations.
Have you ever been in Paris for the Fête Nationale? Share your comments with us!
I remembered I was in Paris for Bastille Day last year! It was crazy and wild really the tipycal cliché of Parisian life! Fireworks, good wine and cheese… I love Paris
Bastille Day in France is something you should not miss for anything !! The French way always involved great food and wine. There is also a ritual for french people is the “bal” where you can dance.
This is a great way to really experience France and it’s heart and soul of the people.