Once a year, in celebration of Bastille Day, Carcassonne hosts a most spectacular fireworks display, considered by many to be the biggest and best in France (outside of Paris). The walls of the Cité are lit up in a thunderously explosive extravaganza that draws people from all over the world.
Since 1898, the medieval city of Carcassonne has been the setting for this spectacular event, which happens on the evening of 14 July. More than 400,000 people come together at 10:30pm on the banks of the River Aude to admire the multi-coloured display which lights up the ramparts and its breath-taking and explosive finale.
What’s it all about?
Bastille Day is the common name given in English-speaking countries to the French National Day, which is celebrated on the same day every year. In France, it is formally called “La Fête Nationale” . The day itself is a commemoration of the storming of the Bastille in Paris on 14 July 1789, a significant event that occurred 226 years ago as part of the French Revolution, as well as the Fête de la Fédération which celebrated the unity of the people on 14 July 1790. Celebrations are held throughout France.
Bastille Day in Carcassonne is an awesome spectacle, and we definitely recommend checking it out if you are here at that time. It gets very busy of course, so just ask us for recommendations on the best viewing locations!
Further information:
Tourist Office Carcassonne