About Bastille Day (Fête Nationale)
Bastille Day — la Fête Nationale, le 14 juillet — is France's national day, commemorating the storming of the Bastille prison on July 14, 1789, the spark of the French Revolution. The countdown above ticks toward the next one.
The day brings Europe's oldest and largest military parade down the Champs-Élysées, jets trailing blue-white-red over Paris, the President reviewing troops, and fireworks at the Eiffel Tower watched by hundreds of thousands. Across France, communes hold the beloved bals des pompiers — firemen's balls — the night before.
Upcoming dates
| 2026 | Tuesday, July 14, 2026next |
| 2027 | Wednesday, July 14, 2027 |
| 2028 | Friday, July 14, 2028 |
| 2029 | Saturday, July 14, 2029 |
| 2030 | Sunday, July 14, 2030 |
FAQ
When is Bastille Day?
July 14 every year — France's national day, commemorating the storming of the Bastille in 1789.
What happens on Bastille Day?
A grand military parade on the Champs-Élysées, an air force flypast, fireworks at the Eiffel Tower, and parties across France.
Do the French call it Bastille Day?
No — in France it is simply le 14 juillet or la Fête Nationale. "Bastille Day" is the English name.