FIAF’s Bastille Day celebration is back for its annual event commemorating France’s national holiday. New York City welcomes over 25,000 people for the official anniversary of the storming of the Bastille prison in Paris in 1789. New Yorkers and tourists alike can experience a slice of French culture with programming for the whole family to enjoy. For a unique cultural experience filled with a flurry of French flags, parties, and gourmet markets, don’t miss Bastille Day right here in NYC!
What is Bastille Day?
Bastille Day is an annual event that celebrates the national independence festival of France. This day signifies the anniversary of the capture of the Bastille, a state prison in Paris that fell to a mob and signaled the end of the reign of Louis XVI. This historical event was the beginning of the French Revolution.
The Bastille prison was originally used as a fortress in the Hundred Years War but later became a royal prison in the early 1400s. It imprisoned anyone who revolted against the King. Storming the prison symbolized the people’s dislike of the monarchy and liberated those who took part in it.
What’s the Date of Bastille Day?
Bastille Day is proudly celebrated every year on July 14th.
How is Bastille Day Celebrated Today?
Festivities on July 14th are as popular as ever. In Paris, there’s a traditional military parade on the Champs-Elysees, plus dancing and fireworks displays for locals to enjoy.
Countries That Celebrate
A number of other countries, other than France, plan events to celebrate Bastille Day. South Africa, the Czech Republic, French Polynesia, India, Ireland, Canada, and, of course, the United States all get in on the action of touting French culture with joyous celebrations of their own.
Bastille Day in New York City 2024
New York City knows how to throw a party and Bastille Day is the perfect kind of party to immerse yourself in French culture and enjoy numerous activities to commemorate the day.
The French Institute: Alliance Française hosts the annual celebration on Madison Avenue, from 59th to 63rd Street, from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm on July 14th, 2024. There will be a Champagne Party, two film screenings, more than 50 French and local vendor booths, and free activities for all ages.
New York City is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and customs. The celebration of Bastille Day is the perfect example of how the people of the city come together and honor this historical event that contributes to the city’s rich culture because of its significance to New Yorkers from French heritage. NYC is full of fun summer events, so mark your calendars today!
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