Towards the end of the 18th century, disenchantment with Louis XVI's monarchy, the aristocracy and the church had spread across large parts of France and was increasingly being expressed with acts of civil unrest. On 14 July 1789 several hundred Parisians marched to the Bastille Prison and killed the governor, an act that triggered the start of the French Revolution, which brought about the end of the monarchy. With it came the declaration 'liberte, egalite, fraternite' – freedom, equality and brotherhood. To this day, the storming of the Bastille is commemorated across France as the Fete de la Bastille – Bastille Day. There are nationwide celebrations but some of the biggest in the country take place in Paris along the famous Champs-Elysees. Thousands of spectators turn out to watch the procession and military bands as they make their way along the tree-lined avenue. After dark, a huge fireworks display lights up the night sky and parties continue till the small hours in the city's bars, cafes and restaurants. The day is a public holiday throughout the country.

Times
Various.