"Vive le 14 juillet!"(Long live the 14th of July) is the slogan of Bastille Day to celebrate the freedom of the French every year on July 14. It was first celebrated in 1790 but did not become a national holiday in France until 1880. Similar to the Fourth of July in the United States, it celebrates one of the first battles of the French Revolution. Now, let's dive into the details a little deeper!
What is the history of Bastille Day?
The Bastille was a state prison in Paris and on July 14, 1789, an angry mob of 40,000 people stormed in to take it over. This started the French Revolution. Three years later the French Republic was formed in 1792.
Who celebrates Bastille Day?
Throughout France, many celebrate Bastille Day. But, it is also celebrated by other countries, especially French-speaking people and communities worldwide.
What are the festivities of Bastille Day?
The most famous event is the Bastille Day Military Parade which takes place on the morning of July 14th in Paris. Now, the parade runs down the Champs-Elysees from the Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde. At the end of the parade, the French President and several foreign ambassadors wait and greet the military. Other than that, they are large picnics, musical performances, dances, and a fireworks show at the Eiffel Tower.
Fun Facts about Bastille Day
- Milwaukee, Wisconsin has a large Bastille Day celebration that lasts four days! They even have Eiffel Tower fireworks with their 43-foot-tall replica.
- New Orleans, New York, and Chicago are US cities that are famous for their Bastille Day celebrations as well.
- Tour de France takes place during Bastille Day, which is another significant event that people enjoy doing in France during the holiday.
- Only seven prisoners were in the Bastille the day it was stormed. The prison was only big enough to hold 50 people.
Are you celebrating Bastille Day? Celebrate with this fun free coloring page of Womple embracing France!
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