Culture
Vive La France: Recognizing the Country’s Global Presence on Bastille Day
In just a few short days, the country of France will join in celebrations across the nation to commemorate their national holiday, Bastille Day. Cities across the country will enjoy dazzling displays of fireworks, witness military parades, and savor the camaraderie of the occasion. However, the celebrations of Bastille Day extend way beyond Europe as cities worldwide recognize and celebrate the holiday, highlighting France’s global influence.
Bastille Day marks the anniversary of one of the most revolutionary days in France – the storming of Bastille. The overtaking of the military fortress and prison served as the catalyst for the French Revolution propelling revolutionaries toward their goal of freedom. Occurring on July 14, 1789, the remarkable moment in France’s history has been celebrated for over 200 years. Though the day is France’s national holiday, individuals and communities from across the globe take part in Bastille Day celebrations cementing France’s global presence.
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From buzzing metropolises and quaint countrysides to serene coasts, France remains an icon in culture, travel, entertainment, and food. Tourists, expatriates, nomads, and world travelers venture to France to explore and experience the country’s diverse offerings. Industry leaders flock to sunkissed coasts of the South of France to take part in leading conferences and summits at Cannes. Tourists travel to Paris to experience decadent cuisine, stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, and feel the allure of the country’s capital city. For expatriates and nomads, the countryside entices them with a calm atmosphere, rustic charm, and plenty of vineyards to roam. For many travelers, France isn’t just a place, it’s a home way from home.
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The same sentiment can be said for French citizens living away from their home cities in countries like the United States, Thailand, and Colombia. Numerous expatriates have ventured from France to vibrant communities like El Poblado in Medellín, unleashing their creativity, while others venture to cities like Sathorn, one of Bangkok’s most influential cultural hubs. French communities in metropolitan hubs such as Chicago and New York City will participate in city celebrations. FIDI West and South Cove residents can experience the FIAF’s Bastille Day 2024 Celebration featuring fun activities for all. River North residents can attend Navy Pier’s Bastille Day celebration for a day full of free fun family entertainment.
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New York City, in particular, shares a unique connection with France and the city of Paris. Since the gifting of the Statue of Liberty from France on July 4, 1884, France and NYC have shared countless artistic, culinary, and historic exchanges throughout the centuries. From fashion shows to the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics, there’s a vibrant synergy that draws individuals from each city to visit the other. Die-hard sports fans will travel to France in just a few weeks to watch the world’s best athletes perform at the 2024 Olympic Games, while French fashion icons, celebrities, and designers will venture to Manhattan for the iconic New York Fashion Week in September. The two cities have created a powerful connection bringing together cultures, individuals, companies, and communities together despite the distance which can be seen especially on Bastille Day.
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While Bastille Day is France’s national holiday, it has become a day that is shared between cultures. Whether you’re a French citizen, an avid visitor to Paris, or have never visited, Bastille Day is a day to reflect on France’s history, appreciate its culture, and celebrate its continued evolution. No matter the location, there’s no denying that Bastille Day isn’t just a French celebration, it’s a global one.