Bastille Day

Bastille Day Quick Facts - ZA

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2024 Date14 July 2024
2025 Date14 July 2025

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Bastille Day (France)

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Bastille Day commemorates the 1789 storming of the Bastille, which symbolized the crucial victory of the French people against monarchical tyranny. The day also honors the Fête de la Fédération, held on July 14th, 1790, which celebrated the unity of the French nation following the revolution.

The relevance of Bastille Day to South Africans dates back to the late 17th century, with the arrival of French Huguenots fleeing religious persecution in France. The French significantly contributed to the development of the South African wine industry through their viticulture knowledge and expertise, influencing the country's culture and economy.

In South Africa, Bastille Day is observed through the events taking place in Franschhoek, a historically French region famous for its vineyards. Held during the Franschhoek Bastille Festival, the celebrations include French-themed gourmet food, wine tasting, live music, and various entertainment for the whole family. The observance of Bastille Day in South Africa continues to foster the shared cultural and historical links enjoyed by both nations. The festival usually takes place in the weekend closest to July 14th, as Bastille Day itself occurs on the same date worldwide.

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Top facts about Bastille Day

  • The theme for Bastille Day in 2023 was Freedom.
  • The French flag consists of blue, white and red. White was the colour of the Monarchy and red and blue represented Paris. During the Revolution, the white was surrounded by blue and then red.
  • Bastille Day is a reminder of the French Huguenot settlers who arrived in South Africa in the late 17th century. The Huguenots were French Protestants who fled persecution in France and settled in the Franschhoek Valley, bringing with them their knowledge of winemaking.
  • The French settlers from Bastille played a significant role in establishing the South African wine industry with their knowledge of viticulture. Today, the Franschhoek region boasts some of the finest wineries in the country and is often referred to as the ‘Wine and Gourmet Capital of South Africa’.

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 Africa and France: Postcolonial Cultures, Migration, and Racism (African Expressive Cultures) by Dominic Thomas.
  • Visit French restaurants or cafés in South Africa that might have special Bastille Day menus or events.

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