National Day
Nationwide public holiday in France · Fête nationale
Dates
| Year | Date | Weekday | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 14 July | Tuesday | Nationwide |
| 2027 | 14 July | Wednesday | Nationwide |
Where it applies
Everywhere in France.
Is it a day off?
Yes. It is an official public holiday, so most employees have the day off. Government offices, schools and many businesses are usually closed; shops, restaurants and public transport may keep reduced hours. Check local announcements for opening times.
Typical weather in Paris around 14 July: high 25°C (77°F), low 13°C (56°F), rain on 20% of days.
Averages for 2015–2024, 3 days either side of the date, for the area around Paris. Past averages, not a forecast.
Forecast for Wednesday 14 July in Paris: (MET Norway)
About National Day
The National Day on 14 July, often called Bastille Day in English, recalls the storming of the Bastille prison in Paris in 1789, a founding event of the French Revolution, and the Festival of the Federation held a year later to celebrate national unity. It was established as the national holiday in 1880.
Traditions
A military parade takes place on the Champs-Élysées in Paris in the presence of the President. Towns and villages hold fireworks displays, and many fire stations host popular dances known as bals des pompiers around 13 and 14 July. Flags decorate public buildings, and the evening fireworks at the Eiffel Tower draw large crowds.
Editorial summary by Public Holidays World. Dates on this page come from the data source; customs vary by region and family.
Coming up next in France
Sunday, 15 August 2027
National Day in other countries
More for France
Holiday dates are for general information and can change. Official government announcements take precedence.