Festivities in Paris for the 14th of July

The 14th of July is the national French day or day of the Bastille.  In Paris, there are many festivities around town.

Free concert – Tuesday 13th July, Place de la Bastille
On July 13, more than 15 exceptional artists are giving a free concert starting at 8:30 pm at place de la Bastille. (Broadcast live on France Ô). The City of Paris in partnership with France Televisions presents the concert of the diversity. This free concert, under the sign of eclecticism, entertainment and sharing, will bring together over fifteen popular artists: Amadou & Mariam Khaled, Chimene Badi, Uncle Ben Soul, Shy'm, Smod, William Balde, Inna Modja, Sheryfa Luna Stanislas Mike Ibrahim, Jean-Roch, Tom Frager, John Mamann, Lord Kossity ...

 








Militar Parade – Wed 14th July, Champs Elysees
The parade is organized by the Ministry of Defense. It will run from 9:30 to 12:30 on the Avenue des Champs-Elysees. Fifty years after the independence, the troops of fourteen former French colonies in sub-Saharan Africa will lead the traditional parade of 14 July on the Champs-Elysees.

For the first time on the Champs-Elysees, the Special Forces of the Regiment of Parachute Dragoons will be present. To celebrate the centenary of the naval aviation, people will witness an unprecedented parade of planes, and the jump of paratroopers just in front of the official gallery.
If you want to see something, arrive very early to get a good spot. Or… watch it on TV!

 





Firework – Wed 14th July, Champs de Mars/ Tour Eiffel
The traditional fireworks will be shot on July 14 at 11 pm from the Trocadero gardens on the theme of the colors of the French-speaking community.
To see the fireworks, it’s better to be on the opposite shore to watch the fireworks ( Champs de Mars-Tour Eiffel).
The fireworks & lights show will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the International Organization of the Francophonie, and propose a 30-minute journey to the heart of the French speaking countries.

Around Paris – 13 July
Cities around Paris organize their Firework on the 13th of July with usually a ball following.
•    Versailles: at 9 pm there is a free concert on Place du Marche Notre Dame followed at 11pm by a firework launched in front of the Castle of Versailles. More info here (in French only)
•    Provins: the medieval city is organizing its own firework at 10:30 pm from the main square followed by a concert. It’s a good way to end a day of visit! More info on Provins here