Site Development
We are always adding to this site to make it a comprehensive guide to all things French. - Recent Updates - E-mail Us with Suggestions |
Bastille Day
Bastille Day commemorates the seizing of the Bastille prison by the people on 14 July 1789. This was the start of the French Revolution. The prison, despite only holding seven prisoners at the time of its capture, was a symbol of the absolute power of King Louis XV1. By capturing the prison, the people signalled that the monarchy’s reign and their oppression was over. Being its most important national holiday, France celebrates the 14th of July each year with parties and parades. The festivities start in Paris on Bastille Day Eve with dancing in the Bastille Square the place where the fortress once stood as well as many other places and there are fireworks at most local villages around Paris. On the day itself, celebrations include a military march up the Champs Elysees accompanied by jets overhead expelling blue, white and red smoke (for French tricolour flag colours). A fireworks display at night takes place at the Trocadero near the Eiffel Tower (click here for clip of fireworks). In every village in France the streets are filled with people having fun and plenty of champagne. Bastille Day is not only celebrated in France but also in many other places around the world:
For facts about Bastille Day, click here. |