Celebrate Bastille Day like the French, with Summer France
Bastille Day, celebrated on 14 July 2024, is France’s national day and a pivotal public holiday. Commemorating the storming of the Bastille in 1789, this day symbolises the spirit of the French Revolution. Across France, towns and villages come alive with festivities, fireworks, and local fêtes. Let’s explore some must-visit celebrations for your next summer holiday in France.
Moliets
In Moliets, the festivities usually kick off at 6 pm with the town mayor hosting a delightful gathering in the town square, featuring wine, cheese, and barricot. As the evening progresses, families enjoy a vibrant ball with music and dancing, culminating in a spectacular beach fireworks display at 11 pm.
Other Local Fêtes in Moliets:
– Moliets et Mâa Local Fête: Enjoy an outdoor bar and barbecue, games, a pétanque competition, a lively ball, and the dramatic ‘toro de fuego’—a firing bull spectacle with fireworks from 13 to 15 August 2024.
A week’s stay at Villas La Clarière aux Cheuvreuils, departing 09 July 2025 costs £3,015 / £377 pp (was £4,021, saving £1,006) based on eight sharing a Prestige Villa on a self-catered basis, including private parking and a welcome hamper. Flights, transfers, activities and meals extra.
Isle sur la Sorgue
Bastille Day in Isle sur la Sorgue revolves around the Sorgue River, featuring unique nautical entertainment such as water jousting tournaments in small wooden boats and pedalo races. As temperatures reach a comfortable 32 degrees, getting wet is part of the fun. Yearly festivities usually include a torch-lit procession and a grand firework display at 10 pm, followed by a local dance where everyone, from children to elders, joins in to dance to a local band. The friendly atmosphere makes this event a highlight for residents and visitors alike.
A week’s stay at Residence Provence Country Club from 10 July 2025, costs from £841 / £210 pp (was £1,294, saving £453) for an apartment sleeping up to six guests on a self-catered basis. Flights, transfers, activities and meals extra.
Vendée
On the Vendée coast, the Bastille Day celebrations blend tradition with the natural beauty of the seaside. Unlike the big city parades, Vendée’s fireworks displays are enjoyed with feet in the sand at 11 pm, reflecting off the sea and illuminating the beaches.
Local Events:
– Saint Jean de Monts: At 9 pm, a procession in traditional folklore clothing winds from the shore to the village. Fireworks begin at 11 pm on the beach, followed by a popular village dance in the town square.
– Saint Gilles Croix de Vie: The evening starts with a marching band parading from the main beach through the village. At 11 pm, a firework display from the long pier lights up the sky.
A week’s stay, at Le Domaine de Vertmarines, in Saint Jean de Monts, departing 10 July 2025, costs from £2,206 / £ 550 pp for up to four people sharing a two-bedroom villa. Flights, transfers, food and activities extra.
From the scenic coastal celebrations in Vendée to the river-centered festivities in Provence and the quaint village fêtes in Moliets, Bastille Day in France is a celebration of history, culture, and community. Each region offers its unique charm and traditions, ensuring an unforgettable experience for visitors. So, plan your summer holiday in France and join in the vibrant festivities of Bastille Day like the French!
Bonne Fête Nationale!
