French National Day in Paris

The 14th of July remembers each year the French Revolution in the end of the eighteenth century as our National Day. Unity of the people against the absolute powers of kings is a founder episode of our History! The whole city bears blue-white-red, colours of the homeland, for this particular day. I can assure you this day will provide you a lot of celebrations and festivities in the city of Paris. Here are our recommendations of things to do on French National Day in Paris.

Monet Painting, Montorgueil street to celebrate the National Day in Paris.

This painting of the impressionist Monet, shows the ferment of the National Day, as an old tradition in the capital city. Here is my guide for you to enjoy Paris during the National Day.

Popular ball, the firemen join the party

On the night of the 13th of July, many traditional balls are organised, and Paris converts itself into a giant dance-floor between 9 pm and 4 am of the next morning. In every neighbourhood, firemen organize traditional balls.

It depends on the fire station but you may have to give a little contribution to join the party. There are also more public ones. For example, the ball of the Bastille Square gathers thousands of persons, enjoying all together concerts and popular dances.

Popular ball organized by firemen for the 14th of July in Paris.

Military parade, power of the nation on the Champs

Military parade in the Champs Elysées in Paris for the 14th of July.

The military parade is the main attraction on the morning of the 14th July. It takes place in the Champs Elysées between the Arc of Triumph and the Concorde Square where is installed the presidential rostrum. There are 4000 soldiers, 240 horses and also the national flotilla of war planes designing the French flag in the sky. This parade is definitely one of the highlights of this important date, so if you’re in the city on July, 14th, don’t miss it!

French flotilla of war planes for the 14th of July in Paris.

Join our walking tours

If you don’t like crowded places and rather get away from the crowds, prefer seizing the opportunity to quietly walk the best neighborhoods of Paris while everyone’s at the festivities, I suggest you to join our walking tours! Our Paris tours run everyday, even during the French National day!

Walk the lovely neighborhoods of Marais and Montmartre, the areas of the Latin Quarter and Saint Germain des Près in the company of a local guide! Explore Paris hidden gems but also get to see Paris greatest landmarks! During these tours, your local guide will make sure you enjoy the most of the city! At night, if you’re wondering where is the best place to see the fireworks, you can join our night tour! Your local guide will provide you the best tips!

More suggestions

If you want to know more about what the locals do on this special date, read this article. The French National day, also known as Bastille day, is one of the most important events for the French. This is why you will see many different aspects of the city. Details about the city and the locals you would miss on any other day of the year. In my opinion, the month of July is one of the best times to visit the city! So make sure you enjoy the most of the city during this warm and relaxing month!

My tips for you

First you have to know it’s an holiday and many shops will be closed. Also, the metro stations on line 1 are closed between Concorde and Charles De Gaulle Etoile on this day.

But don’t worry, plenty of free activities will be organized all around the city. For instance, the Louvre Museum allows everyone for free between 9 am to 5.30 pm.

At night, the festivities continue on the Champ de Mars. At 11 pm, the fireworks will start there, over the river and close by the Eiffel Tower. That is why I advise you to book an hotel in the Trocadero area if you want to go back to your room by a short walk.

My article about the French National day in Paris is over! I hope you’ve enjoyed reading it and that it has provided you some useful information! Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us, if you need further information about anything! See you soon in Paris!