Bastille Day

The evening before the big day is spent dancing in the Bastille square and at numerous balls that are organised around the city. Worth a look-in are the many parties held by the fire service in their stations, at which the fire-fighters themselves are usually the star attraction (their uniforms providing a lure for the ladies).

There is also a big outdoor Gay Ball if you fancy something more boisterous. If that doesn't take your fancy, try sitting down to the Incredible Picnic, one of the largest in the world, taking place in some 20 of France's departments.

On the big day itself, the big parade on the Champs-Elysées sees jets fly in formation as top military brass march from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde. Bringing up the rear and receiving the loudest applause are the fire brigade, perhaps suffering from a hangover or two. It's wise to arrive early if you want to get a good view.

The partying continues all day and later thousands of people come together again at the Champ-de-Mars to watch the fireworks at the Trocadéro. On top of all that, most bars and clubs stage their own celebrations, so take your pick. If you're not in Paris, don't worry: every single village in France has their own dance, with champagne, fireworks, street fun and lots more. Everyone should take in at least one Bastille Day in their lives.

Although nothing now remains of the Bastille fortress itself, the place where it once stood remains an enduring symbol of the ideals of liberté, egalité and fraternité.