Bastille Day

France · history · revolution · celebration

France's birthday. Bastille Day on July 14th is when France celebrates being a free nation. It's like France's Independence Day, and people all across the country have parades, fireworks, and parties.

The Bastille prison. The day is named after the Bastille, a fortress in Paris that was used as a prison. On July 14, 1789, people stormed it during the French Revolution because they wanted freedom from the king's unfair rule.

Fireworks everywhere. On Bastille Day, cities and towns throughout France light up the sky with spectacular fireworks. The biggest celebrations happen in Paris, where the Champs-Elysees fills with parades and music.

A legal holiday. Bastille Day is France's official national holiday, kind of like how July 4th is for the United States. Schools and businesses close so people can celebrate together.

Known worldwide. English-speaking countries call it Bastille Day, while French people call it 'le 14 juillet' or 'la fete nationale.' It's one of the most famous national celebrations in Europe.