BASTILLE DAY FESTIVITIES

JULY 14—France’s national holiday, and one of Paris’ biggest public parties, is a two-day event celebrating the beginning of the French Revolution. On July 13, Place de la Bastille turns into one big dance party until the wee hours (and then some!). Balls are also held throughout the city and in many fire stations—the firemen are an amazing sight to behold, decked out in their uniforms. On July 14, residents and visitors line the Champs Elysées (get there very early!) for a parade featuring the military’s top brass. Overhead, jets fly in impressive formation along the parade route, from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde. City-wide festivities (in every bar, café and restaurant) continued throughout the day. As evening falls, gather at the Champ-de-Mars to watch the fireworks at the Trocadéro.

For a truly memorable celebration, the Bateaux Parisiens cruise the Seine from 8:30 p.m. until midnight. Dinner cruises, with live entertainment, include the best seats for the fireworks display! Visit: http://www.cometoparis.com/parisbastilledaydinnercruise.html

Bastille Day Details:

JULY 13
• Dance at Place de la Bastille 8:30 p.m.
JULY 14
• Parade along the Champs Elysées – 10 a.m.
• Jet fly-over the Champs Elysées – 11 a.m.
• Fireworks, Champ-de-Mars/Trocadéro – 10 p.m.

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