Bastille Day

Bastille Day History

Bastille Day is a celebration of national unity, democracy, and the ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity. The day commemorates the storming of the Bastille and pays tribute to the unity of the French people. Parades, fireworks shows, and public gatherings are held throughout France to celebrate.

The origins of Bastille Day date back to July 14, 1789, when a mob of Parisians stormed the Bastille, a prison and symbol of royal tyranny, in a show of defiance against Louis XVI's oppressive regime. This event marked the beginning of the French Revolution, leading to widespread political upheaval and radical reforms.

Celebrations often include French-themed parties, culinary events featuring French cuisine, and cultural events promoting French language, literature, and arts. British cities with large French populations, such as London, host public gatherings and festivities on July 14th. Bastille Day is observed annually on July 14th.

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.
• Bastille Day was celebrated with double enthusiasm in London in 1915 during World War I. British and French troops marched through the streets of London, with the Royal Marines band playing La Marseillaise , the French national anthem.
• At the time of the storming, many British citizens saw it as a symbol of resistance against monarchy and despotism, while others were fearful of the revolutionary fervor spreading to the British Isles.

In the News and Trending in the UK 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.
• Read The French Revolution Impact on Britain: The Romantic Period and Industrialization by Malcolm Crook and Tom Crook.
• London often hosts various French-themed events around Bastille Day. Look out for street festivals, food markets, or open-air concerts that may be organized in celebration.