Bastille Day

Bastille Day History

Bastille Day marks the anniversary of a critical event in French history. The day's primary purpose is to celebrate the storming of the Bastille fortress-prison which symbolized the emergence of a new era of freedom and democracy in France. This observance highlights the end of the monarchy and the beginning of the French Revolution, marking a turning point in French society where the voice of the common people became just as influential as that of the elite.

It's important to recognize that there is a longstanding relationship between France and Canada, with numerous French-Canadian citizens tracing their roots back to France. The French language and culture make up an essential part of Canadian heritage, as French remains one of Canada's two official languages.

Bastille Day is celebrated through French-themed festivals, music performances, and culinary events showcasing French cuisine. The most significant celebrations typically take place in the province of Quebec, where the French influence is the strongest. Bastille Day is observed on July 14th annually.

Top facts about Bastille Day

• The theme for Bastille Day in 2024 was La Liberté.
  In 2023, the theme was Freedom.
• The French flag consists of blue, white and red. White was the colour of the Monarchy and red and blue represented Paris. During the Revolution, the white was surrounded by blue and then red.
• The revolutionary ideology and the subsequent French wars of the late 18th and early 19th centuries created an atmosphere of political tension, fear, and suspicion among the British colonial authorities.
• During the French Revolution, many French emigrants fled to North America to escape political turmoil and upheaval. Some of these emigrants settled in French-speaking areas like Quebec, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Bastille Day

Bastille Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Watch the Fireworks at the Eiffel Tower. They usually start around 11pm and can be viewed from the Champs de Mars and Trocadero.
• Go out to a French Restaurant. Many have specials for this day.
• Visit the Museum of Civilization in Gatineau, Quebec, to learn more about the history and culture of the French-speaking people in Canada.
• Look for firework displays organized by French-Canadian communities or major cities. These fireworks are often held to commemorate Bastille Day and can be quite spectacular.