Bastille Day

Bastille Day History

Bastille Day commemorates the 1789 Storming of the Bastille prison and the subsequent beginning of the French Revolution. This day symbolizes the fight for democracy, freedom, and the establishment of justice and equality for the French nation.

The historical significance of Bastille Day dates back to July 14, 1789, when French revolutionaries stormed the Bastille prison and released several political prisoners. This event ignited the French Revolution and led to the eventual abolishment of the monarchy in France. For Australian people, the celebration of Bastille Day highlights the enduring connection between Australia and France, whose relationship can be traced back to the early European exploration of the Australian continent by French explorers. Australia holds a permanent bond with France due to the nation's contribution to the liberation of the Western Front in World War I, where thousands of Australian soldiers fought and died for the cause.

In Australia, Bastille Day is observed by hosting events that showcase French food, culture, music, and language. French-Australian community organizations hold special events to commemorate the historical occasion, such as performing arts programs and cocktail parties, while some restaurants offer special menus honouring French gastronomy. Schools and language institutes also arrange educational activities to teach about the French Revolution and its significance to world history. Bastille Day takes place on July 14 each year, aligning with the date of the historical event in France.

Top 9 Facts for 2026 Bastille Day (France)

• The upcoming observance of Bastille Day in 2026 will coincide with the 10th anniversary celebrations of the Bastille Day French Festival Melbourne, which is scheduled to transform the Queen Victoria Market into a bustling winter marketplace on the 11th and 12th of July.
• While commonly known in the English-speaking world as Bastille Day, the French people officially refer to the holiday as La Fête Nationale or simply le quatorze juillet to commemorate the 1790 Fête de la Fédération.
• The Bastille Festival Sydney is set to return to the iconic Circular Quay and The Rocks from the 16th to the 19th of July 2026, offering Sydneysiders over 110 free performances and a specialized wine program across eight dedicated French wine bars.
• In Brisbane, the premier cultural event Le Festival will take place at Roma Street Parkland from the 24th to the 26th of July 2026, featuring a traditional pique-nique à la française with artisanal cheeses and champagne masterclasses.
• Film enthusiasts across 18 Australian cities will engage with the 37th Alliance Française French Film Festival earlier in the year, which is highlighted by the Australian premiere of the luminous drama La Venue de l’avenir, also known as Colours of Time.
• Interest in French heritage in Australia is further bolstered by the 2026 exhibition French Impressionism at the National Gallery of Victoria, which showcases over 100 masterpieces from legends like Monet and Renoir.
• A curious historical fact often overlooked is that during the actual storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, the fortress-prison held only seven prisoners, yet it remained a potent symbol of royal tyranny and the Ancien Régime.
• One of the most beloved contemporary traditions in France that generates international curiosity is the Bal des Pompiers, or the Firemen’s Ball, where local fire stations open their doors to the public for all-night dancing and festivities on the eve of the holiday.
• The historical event ironically missed the liberation of the notorious Marquis de Sade, who had been transferred from the Bastille to an asylum just ten days before the revolutionary crowd arrived.

In the News and Trending in Australia for Bastille Day

Bastille Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Watch the Fireworks at the Eiffel Tower. They usually start around 11pm and can be viewed from the Champs de Mars and Trocadero.
• Go out to a French Restaurant. Many have specials for this day.
• Read The French in Australia by Paul F. Bourke and Colin A. Hughes.
• Visit a French restaurant or bakery in your city that may offer special Bastille Day menus or themed events.