Bastille Day 2025

Description

Bastille Day is the French national holiday that celebrates the start of the modern French Republic. It remembers events from 1789 that helped bring big changes to France and its laws.

In St Pierre and Miquelon the holiday is observed on July 14 every year. The islands follow the same date as mainland France because they are a French territory.

For people there the day is important because it shows their connection to France and its history. It is a time to remember ideas like liberty, equality, and fraternity that shape French society.

Bastille Day also marks national unity and the shared memory of struggles that led to democracy in France. In St Pierre and Miquelon it reminds residents of their legal and cultural ties to the Republic.

Traditions

On St Pierre and Miquelon, people start with morning flag ceremonies and small official gatherings. Local bands play, and there are parades through town. Children wave flags and join in simple games near the harbor and town squares.

Families and friends eat outside when weather allows. Seafood like cod and lobster appears often, along with local breads and sweet pastries. Streets fill with picnic blankets, shared plates, and neighbors trading treats and recipes.

In the evening there are concerts, dancing, and fireworks over the water. Folk songs and accordion music set a lively mood. Community halls host dances and communal meals where people mingle, sing, and celebrate together.

Travel Tips

Many shops, banks and government offices close. Ferries and flights fill early. Book transport and restaurants ahead. Bring ID, phone power and some cash. Expect road and harbour traffic near event areas.

Parades and fireworks draw crowds. Arrive early, follow barriers and local instructions, and keep a safe distance. Wear layers for changing weather and use walking routes to explore quieter parts of the islands for a peaceful, meaningful visit.