Hi all-
Going to be in Paris for Bastille Day this July. What do I need to know? I know some museums and historical sites are open, but are they busier these days? What should we expect?
Thanks so much!
Posted by
Chicago
9667 posts
It is called Fete Nationale in France. Great fireworks. Parade. all the arrondissements have fireman's balls, some of which are just street parties you can join in with your own drinks. (some the eve before). Museums are open and when we last did this the Louvre was free.
Posted by
France Southwest - Occitanie
3842 posts
July 14, 2026, will be a Tuesday, which is a day when some museums are regularly closed anyway, such as the Louvre.
Some stores may be closed all day, others only in the afternoon, while some will remain open as usual. There is no blanket rule.
Due to the military parade on the Champs-Élysées, most metro stations around the area will be closed and access to the entire Champs-Élysées zone will be subject to security screenings. In the evening (after 10 p.m.), a traditional fireworks show takes place at the Eiffel Tower (as it does in many French cities). Expect massive crowds in the surrounding areas and closed metro stations.
Balls are hosted all over the place in the evening, notably inside fire stations.
As pointed out by janet, only English speakers refer to this day as "Bastille Day." In France we say "Fête Nationale" (National Holiday), or simply 14 Juillet.