In France, there are certain public holidays that cannot be ignored. Such is the case with July 14, a day of celebration that includes military parades, firemen's balls and fireworks. But do you know why July 14 is a public holiday in France? Would you like us to refresh your memory?
Of course, July 14 refers to the storming of the Bastille, the famous royal prison, on July 14, 1789. On that day, five cannons taken from the Invalides in the morning were placed in front of the Bastille by French guards. At around 5 p.m., the Bastille garrison surrendered, and the Parisians, who had come to collect gunpowder and bullets, took over the Bastille. It was not until the following morning that King Louis XVI learned of the event. The Duc de La Rochefoucauld-Liancourt left a famous note, " Non, Sire, c'est une révolution " (" No, Sire, it's a revolution "). This historic event marked the beginning of the French Revolution, and the end of absolute monarchy.
But the date July 14th also refers to the Fête de la Fédération. One year after the storming of the Bastille, on July 14, 1790, this great event marked the reconciliation of the king and the French people. King Louis XVI intervened as head of the executive and took an oath to the Constitution and the Nation, in the presence of deputies from the 83 departments of the day.
Finally, in 1880, Republican deputies were faced with the need to offer the Nation a collective celebration. But which date and how to choose it? Several dates were discussed, but in the end, July 14 was chosen. On May 21, 1880, Benjamin Raspail, a deputy from Paris, tabled a bill. The law was promulgated on July 6, ten years after the birth of the Third Republic. July 14, the national holiday, was also declared a public holiday.
What to do for the Fête Nationale July 14th events in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
What to do in Paris and the Ile-de-France region this July 14? Between the military parade, the fireworks display at the Eiffel Tower, the fire department balls and other special events, there's plenty to do this holiday. Looking for ideas for outings in the Paris region? Here's the 2024 program! [Read more]
In France, the national holiday is celebrated on July 14, 2024. To mark the occasion, the Musée du Louvre is opening its doors free of charge, subject to registration. It's the perfect opportunity to discover this iconic Parisian landmark and explore its collections and masterpieces. [Read more]
July 14th is the national holiday in France. A date that celebrates the Republic through traditional festivities. Why not take the opportunity to discover the special programs offered by museums and monuments in Paris and the Ile-de-France region? Here are the must-sees for this July 14, 2024. [Read more]
Did you really think that shopping centers were closed on Sunday, July 14, 2024? Well no, even on public holidays you can enjoy the stores! And since no one thinks about it, you've got free rein to take advantage of the bargains! [Read more]
What to do for the Fête Nationale July 14th events in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
July 14, 2024 in Paris: the Louvre Museum is free for the National Holiday
July 14th in Paris and the Ile-de-France region: events and exhibitions in museums and monuments
Stores and shopping centers open on Sunday, July 14, 2024 in Paris and the greater Paris region
