Standing on the Champs-Elysses, you watch as a huge military parade marches down the road from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde. In an impressive display of national pride, you are caught up in the celebrations as the people of France observe Bastille Day! Remembering the excitement and fun you experienced the night before as fire stations all over town opened their doors, allowing for the numerous balls that are a staple of the Bastille Day festivities, you are amazed at how the citizens support this national holiday.
Led by the President of France every July 14th, the grand parade is a highlight of two days of celebrations, commemorating French Independence and the day that French citizens stormed the Bastille, sparking the French Revolution. The parade also features firefighters from all over the city, smartly dressed in their uniforms and providing another example of French pride. The parties continue throughout the day with dancing and picnics all over town and through the countryside. In the evening the sky lights up with fireworks being set off from the Eiffel Tower.
Not only do the people of Paris take great satisfaction in this annual event, but villages and towns all over France get involved in local celebrations as well. Each town commemorates the day with dances, fireworks, block parties and picnics. It is indeed a national day of celebration.
If you don't happen to be in Paris during Bastile Day, here are a few other ideas you might enjoy:
Tour De France
A fascinating side note is that the Bastille Day celebrations take place in the middle of the Tour de France race. On July 13th and 14th, the cyclists are usually riding from Pau through Hautcam. If cycling interests you, this could be an added benefit to the festivals.
Carcassone
If you are intrigued by Medieval Architecture, come to the village of Carcassone. You will still experience the national celebrations while visiting ancient structures in this picturesque town. The evening is filled with free theatre presentations as well as music throughout the village.
Visit the French Countryside
Take in the atmosphere of some of the smaller villages during the Bastille Days. You will find people in the countryside will make you feel a part of the celebrations and provide you with a more personal experience.
By C.A. Pruit
Thursday, June 26, 2008
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