There are celebrations nationwide in France to mark Bastille Day, but the biggest takes place along the Champs-Elysées in Paris. Thousands of spectators turn out to watch the procession and military bands as they parade along Paris’ most famous avenue which is heavily decorated with French flags. Later in the evening there is a huge firework display, usually with the Eiffel Tower as the backdrop. Many people then join the parties that continue until dawn in the city’s bars, cafés and restaurants.

In addition to France, celebrations will be taking place in many US cities such as New York City, Philadelphia, San Francisco as well as other countries including Hungary, Belgium and the United Kingdom.

Did you know that the Pont de la Concorde in Paris is built with the stones from the Bastille Prison? The next time you go to Paris walk across the bridge as you will be crossing a milestone of French history.

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