Bastille Day

When: 14 July each year, with main official events on the day and popular parties the evening before and after.

Where: Official ceremonies take place in Paris, France, with citywide celebrations and local dances across arrondissements.

Cost: Most public events are free to watch, though reserved parade seating and special hospitality cost money.

Don’t miss: The morning military parade on the Champs-Elysees and the evening fireworks at the Eiffel Tower.

In Paris, France Bastille Day (La Fete Nationale) commemorates the Storming of the Bastille on 14 July 1789 and the subsequent national celebrations that established the Republic; it combines state ceremony with popular festivities. The holiday is both an official display of the armed forces and a communal celebration of French national identity.

The day is anchored by a formal military parade along the Champs-Elysees - presided over by the President - an aerial display by the national aerobatic team, and an evening fireworks show launched from the Eiffel Tower and the adjacent Champ de Mars. Around the city, neighbourhood bal populaire dances, free concerts and street gatherings create a lively, often late-night atmosphere across many arrondissements.

The date is fixed: Bastille Day is always 14 July. The core schedule is stable year to year: the official ceremony and military parade take place in the morning, typically followed by an afternoon air display and regionally organised events, while evening sees fireworks and street parties.

Many locals and visitors treat the night of 13 July as part of the celebration, attending open-air dances and concerts the evening before; security measures and road closures concentrate large crowds in the city centre on the 14th.

The main international gateway is Charles de Gaulle Airport serving Paris, while Orly Airport handles many international and domestic flights and Beauvais serves some low-cost carriers; both airports link to central Paris by RER, trains, buses and taxis. Arrive at least a day early to secure accommodation and avoid travel day congestion; book hotels and any reserved parade seating well in advance and allow extra time to reach viewing points because of route closures and security checks.

• Expect tight security and bag checks near parade and fireworks zones - carry ID and minimal luggage.
• If you want a guaranteed view of the parade consider buying grandstand tickets for the Champs-Elysees or booking a private hospitality package well ahead.
• For fireworks, head to the Champ de Mars or Trocadero early; public transport stations close to the Eiffel Tower fill quickly and may be closed after the display.
• Dress for summer heat and bring water, sun protection and a small foldable seat pad for standing crowds; evenings can cool down after sunset.
• Be mindful of local etiquette: modest behaviour during official moments, and keep valuables secure in dense crowds.
• Book trains and hotels at least several months in advance for summer travel, and check official police or prefecture announcements for temporary transport changes.