Spending Bastille Day in Paris but need to stay budget friendly? Here are some tips to consider:
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Bastille Day, a French holiday, is often compared to Independence Day in the United States. While this is an easy reference that many will understand, aside from both being largely celebrated national holidays, there are not too many other similarities.
More commonly referred to as “La Fete Nationale,” Bastille Day in France, marks the raiding of the Bastille Castle during the time of the French Revolution. The castle was heavily associated with the oppressive monarchy and held numerous political prisoners. Even though the prison was largely empty on the night of the raid, a few prisoners were freed, costing numerous guards and protesters their lives. This event signified a change in momentum for the revolutionaries, ultimately leading to the beginning of the French Republic. Independence Day signifies the separation of the States from Britain. On the 4th of July, the Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence. While there was certainly bloodshed in the struggle to form the U.S., the leaders of the time did not choose this as the focal point for their celebrations. Instead, the cultural heritage of the U.S. is celebrated on a day which highlights the newly defined ideals of the States. Now, more than 200 years later, both of these national holidays are commemorated with speeches, parades, fireworks, concerts, and family gatherings. In France, celebratory events include a large military parade through the Champs-Elysees, galas the evening before, concerts, and an impressive fireworks display after sunset on the 14th of July. Many will travel into the city to enjoy these festivities among the crowds. Others celebrate with just friends and family, gathering together to share picnics or long, leisurely meals. To experience the celebration and make your own comparisons between this French holiday and the 4th of July, contact Bastille Day Tours. Our experienced team can help you navigate Paris and find the best viewing locations for the parade and fireworks. For more about Bastille Day France activities, visit our blog. You’ll find more information about the types of events you can enjoy as well as tips for moving around Paris like a native during this French holiday. Planning a trip to France in July? If so, you’ll definitely want to learn how to say “Happy Bastille Day” in French so that you can sound like a Parisian. Numerous phrases such as “la fete nationale” and “le quatorze julliet” are used by the locals to describe this premier holiday.
Bastille Day is one of France’s national holidays, commemorating key events in the French Revolution. Celebrations take place throughout the country and several cities (Paris, Tours, and Saumur) are noted for their impressive parades and fireworks displays. All of the festivities draw large crowds, so it’s important to make arrangements with your trusted tour company well in advance. In order to navigate this holiday with ease, remember: ● Traffic surrounding the cities on the holiday will be snarled. If you’re driving in for the day, remember to anticipate the congestion and allow plenty of time in your schedule for travel. ● Parking will be at a premium. Lots of other families and tourists will also be headed out to enjoy the activities, making parking spaces sparse. Investigate where you can park ahead of time in order to save yourself a headache on Bastille Day. ● Public transit might be a bit unreliable. With some areas being blocked by the parade route or other festivities, it’s a good idea to verify your route prior to setting out for the day. ● Wear comfortable shoes. Regardless of whether you park, use public transit, or walk, the hike to your final destination will likely be a long one. ● Enjoy the celebration. While the hassles might seem daunting, it’ll be worth the effort. Surprise a local by saying, “Happy Bastille Day” in French or joining in an impromptu performance of the national anthem. Many locals plan a picnic or dine on the delicious local fare while spending a leisurely day with family and friends. As the sun goes down, gather with the crowd to experience the wonderful fireworks displays that mark the historical significance of this premier holiday. Joyeux Quatorze Juillet! |
AuthorBastilleDay.com is the premier source of information about July 14th, France's national celebration. Archives
December 2015
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