Experience Bastille Day in Paris: Where to Go and What to Do

Experience Bastille Day in Paris: Where to Go and What to Do

If you ever get the chance, make sure not to miss France's national holiday – Bastille Day! Celebrated all over the country, the liveliest festivities undoubtedly take place in Paris. I had the pleasure of visiting Paris during this time and was truly thrilled to immerse myself in the festive atmosphere.

Join the Military Parade on the Champs-Élysées

When in Paris for Bastille Day, you absolutely cannot miss the military parade on the Champs-Élysées. This is the oldest and largest parade in Europe, taking place on the morning of July 14th. To secure a good spot, I arrived quite early, well before 9 AM, as the crowds can be quite overwhelming. Once there, I witnessed the French president, aerial displays from the air force, and troops marching down the grand avenue. It was nothing short of amazing!

For a great view, I opted for a nearby café or a hotel with a lovely vista. Keep in mind that traffic around the Champs-Élysées is restricted, so I noted that nearby metro stations often close in the morning.

Afternoon: Explore Paris or Enjoy Free Movies

Many attractions in Paris remain open on Bastille Day, so I took the opportunity to visit the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Palace of Versailles. If you prefer a more relaxed afternoon, you can catch a free outdoor movie at Parc de la Villette. This is a fun entertainment option for the whole family!

Evening: Concert and Fireworks at Champ de Mars

In the evening, I made my way to Champ de Mars, right at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, to enjoy a concert and watch the fireworks. Starting at 9:15 PM, there was a classical concert featuring the French national orchestra and choir. The fireworks began at 11 PM and lasted for 35 minutes, providing a dazzling light show from the Eiffel Tower. I highly recommend arriving early, around 5 PM, to secure a nice picnic spot. However, if you can’t make it early, you can still catch the fireworks from other vantage points like the Pont de l’Alma bridge or from a boat on the Seine River.

Just a heads up, public restrooms are quite scarce and often crowded, so I made sure to carry some change for easier access.

Join the Firemen's Ball Late at Night

After the fireworks, you can participate in the firemen's ball, which takes place late into the night. This is an incredibly fun and unique event where everyone can dance and enjoy the festive spirit together.

Bastille Day is not just a day to commemorate history but also an opportunity to dive into the vibrant celebration of Paris. Whether you're a local or a visitor like me, it becomes an unforgettable experience.