The complete programme

As is the custom, the French national holiday on 14 July will be a great festive occasion. Everyone will be in celebratory mood for a round of exceptional events … This special day starts with the sound of trumpets and bugles to announce the arrival of the President of the French Republic at the top of the Champs-Elysées. Drums sound as the elite of the French army parade down the avenue lined by crowds. After the parade, festivities begin culminating in the much-awaited fireworks display at the Eiffel Tower: the most popular event of the year for millions of tourists! After the finale, dances, the traditional Fireman’s Ball, and other concerts are held throughout the city.

Military Parade on the Avenue des Champs-Elysées The highlight of the ceremonies for the French national holiday. Waiting for the 2012 program. + Infos    July 14th fireworks display This year’s theme: "Disco Years" (70-80) – From 10:45pm. + Infos    Le déjeuner sur l'herbe (Lunch on the grass) The Château de Versailles welcomes the public for a huge picnic on the banks of the Grand Canal + Infos    Other special events for 14 July Free admission to the Louvre, public dances, free afternoon performance at the Opéra de Paris, museums closed on 14 July ... great ideas for the French national holiday. + Infos    The people of the French region welcome their soldiers The arrondissements of Paris and the communes (administrative districts) of the Paris Region will welcome the soldiers after the parade on the Champs-Elysées. + Infos    Fireman’s ball in the fire stations From 9pm to 4am in the morning, forty Parisian fire stations will play host to Parisians and visitors to the city on 13 and 14 July. + Infos