BASTILLE DAY 2023

Each year in France, people come together to celebrate Bastille Day, commemorating the storming of the Bastille in 1789, which is regarded of the first victory of the people of Paris over the Old Regime, during the French Revolution.

The Bastille was a medieval fortress prison, which was a symbol of the French Monarchy’s dictatorial rule over its people. At the time of the storming, it only held seven prisoners, but the stockpiles of weapons and ammunition inside was the real prize. The storming of the Bastille marked the beginning of the revolution of the people of France, with the prison governors head carried around the city streets on a spike.

Despite rumours that the celebrations would be cancelled this year due to some rioting in the capital, the festivities went ahead, for many to enjoy. Traditional ways to celebrate for citizens include watching military parades, parties, and dancing, ending with a wonderful fireworks display by the Eiffel Tower.

What is particularly impressive is how the world-famous structure is incorporated into the display, with the whole tower used as a firing point for some magnificent pyrotechnics.

But the celebrations did not end in the capital; Disneyland Paris held a special fireworks display to commemorate the day, firing beautiful fireworks above the castle, along with a stunning drone display of 1500 devices in all, which broke European records!

The way that the drones were included in the display, perfectly complimenting the fireworks is very creative, and not a technique commonly seen.

The guest of honour at this year’s celebrations was Narendra Modi, the Indian Prime minister, who could be seen sitting with President Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron on the Champs-Elysees during the parade.

Around 240 Indian Military Personnel marched down the famous street to begin, followed by approximately 6,500 French soldiers, 94 planes and helicopters, 219 ground vehicles and almost 300 military animals.

This is a regular annual celebration for the people of France, and an important part of remembering their countries history.