We will arrive in Paris the morning of Bastille day. We're debating taking the train to Reims or staying in Paris. How rowdy does the celebration get? Kid-friendly? We have an 11 and a 13 year old with us. In Paris, where are the best places to experience Bastille Day with kids in mind? And we'd like to avoid public transit that night, so also looking for recommendations for areas to stay within walking distance. How's the celebration in Reims? Thanks all!
Posted by
L'Occitanie, France
10633 posts
Are you saying that you are arriving the 14th? The celebration actually begins on the evening of the 13th.
On the 14th, it’s a pretty calm holiday with a lot of people taking advantage of the extended weekend to get out of town. The firemen’s balls start late on the 13th and go into the night, so those who danced all night sleep in. Families have a nice lunch. You won’t find picnics with a bunch of rowdy drunks. Paris Plage will be up and operating along the banks of the Seine.
As for the military parade on the Champs Elysee in the morning, a lot of tourists seem interested in it. There are some fireworks in the evening, but it’s mostly a calm day in Paris.
A lot will be closed, and even more so in a provincial town such as Reims, but check ahead of time if there are specific sites you want to visit. Maybe some wine cellars will be open , but generally holidays are observed.
Posted by
OP
9 posts
Thanks for the information. Yes, our plane arrives in Paris on the 14th around lunch time. So, there won't be fireworks on the 14th?
Posted by
L'Occitanie, France
10633 posts
Yes, fireworks are after dark on the 14th.