14 juillet - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. La Fête nationale: The 14th of July, also known as Bastille Day, is a national holiday in France that commemorates the French Revolution and the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789. It is a day of celebration and national pride.
- 2. Military Parade: One of the main events of the day is the traditional military parade on the Champs-Élysées in Paris, which is attended by the President of France and other dignitaries. The parade showcases the French military's strength and capabilities.
- 3. Fireworks: In the evening, there are fireworks displays in cities and towns across France to mark the occasion. The most famous fireworks display takes place in Paris, with the Eiffel Tower as a backdrop.
- 4. Parties and Celebrations: The 14th of July is a day for people to come together and celebrate with parties, picnics, and concerts. There are also street parties and events organized in towns and cities throughout France.
- 5. La Marseillaise: The national anthem of France, "La Marseillaise," is sung and played at various events and celebrations on the 14th of July. It is a symbol of the French Revolution and the fight for freedom.
- 6. Bastille Day Origins: The storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, marked the beginning of the French Revolution and the end of the absolute monarchy in France. The event is seen as a turning point in French history.
- 7. Symbol of Liberty: The Bastille has come to symbolize the struggle for liberty and democracy in France. Its destruction by the revolutionaries was a powerful symbol of the people's resistance against oppression.
- 8. National Unity: The 14th of July is a day that unites the French people in celebration of their shared history and values. It is a time to reflect on the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity that are central to the French Republic.
- 9. Tradition of Parades: The military parade on the Champs-Élysées has been a tradition since 1880, when it was first held to celebrate the centenary of the French Revolution. It has since become a symbol of national pride and unity.
- 10. International Celebrations: Bastille Day is not only celebrated in France but also in French-speaking countries and regions around the world. It is a day to honor French culture, history, and values, and to celebrate the spirit of freedom and democracy.