France celebrates Bastille Day!

If you’re in France on the 14th July you cannot miss the national celebrations all around the country, from Paris to small rural villages deep in the countryside. 

Outside of France we call it Bastille Day, but you will never hear it referred to as this by the French. To them it is simply ‘Le Quatorze Juillet’.

It’s a public holiday in France and the national day. It celebrates the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789, which was a symbol of the absolute and elitist power of the French King, Louis XVI. This event marked the beginning of the French Revolution and the rest is history! To this day, the French still place the ideals of Liberty, Equality and Fraternity at the forefront of their national identity.

In Paris the major event is a military parade on the Champs-Elysée attended by the President and many international dignitaries, however, in villages and towns across the country you will see people getting together at buzzing local events with food, singing and dancing. Many events are held on the eve of the 13th July so that some can party hard into the night. 

There are usually plenty of fireworks too, but this year many of the displays have been toned down or cancelled because of the heatwave and increased wildfire risk.

Our very own Mel Dixon who heads up BVI’s Admin team helps organise the celebrations in her home village of Roquecor (pictured). 

Mel says “I’ve helped organise these events for 10 years and the community spirit is great, many villagers, young and old, help with the preparation and the serving on the day. A sit down meal for 400 people is no mean feat! Our Bastille day fete attracts people from the villages around us and tourists alike. It is always a chance to meet new neighbours and catch-up with those you already know.”

At this time you may also see local fire stations opening their doors for the ‘Bals de pompiers’. These public parties are held at the station with food, drink and often live entertainment.

The local celebrations are really inclusive of old and new residents, and many of the BVI team say it’s a lovely way to feel part of the local community. If you like the sound of joining a local french community, our team would love to help you find your dream home. Either visit one of our agencies or give us a call.