Islamabad, 14 July 2022 (TDI): The European Union (EU) delegation to Pakistan wished France on the occasion of Bastille Day, also called the National Day of France.

EU delegation, in a tweet, shared that “France was one of six founding countries of the European Economic Community in 1957. It also highlighted that “The country is also home to the largest art museum in the world.”

France celebrates Bastille Day on the 14th of July every year, with fireworks, a parade, and public revelry. It reflects a symbol of unity among the French people.

However, France adopted July 14 as a national holiday in 1880. The official name of the holiday is Fête Nationale in French, which also indicates a national harmony symbol.

History of Bastille Day

The Bastille is a prison in Paris. French people associate it with the harsh rule of the Bourbon Monarchy. Political prisoners arrested by the Police were kept there.

On July 14, 1789, a mob of Parisians attacked the Bastille prison and released seven prisoners. Hence, this event marked the end of the Bourbon Monarchy and the beginning of the French Revolution of 1789.

On 14 July 1790, Fête de la Fédération (anniversary of the Federation) was celebrated in France. It was a way to celebrate the establishment of a constitutional monarchy.

Furthermore, in 1879, Benjamin Raspail, a politician, proposed that 14 July should become a public holiday in honor of Bastille Day. On July 6, 1880, the law was enacted and Bastille Day became a public holiday.

The day symbolizes the victory of the French people. Therefore, they celebrate it with tremendous excitement.

Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, the festivities were canceled in 2020. No audience witnessed the fireworks display and celebrated. However, today France aims to celebrate it with full zeal.

Furthermore, several bands including the Bagad (Breton pipe band) will be performing today for the celebrations.

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