Fête Nationale 2026 in Houdan (78): fireworks, a rustic picnic and a grand ball on July 13–14

For Bastille Day, the Île-de-France region goes all out. To mark the occasion, the country comes alive with traditional celebrations, including fireworks, military parades, republican picnics, popular dances, and other festive events, from Paris to the outer suburbs.

In the regions, people tend to kick off the festivities the night before July 14, turning the celebration into a full two days—it's even better! Here are smart tips to find a cracking program near you, while the wanderers seize the chance to discover the treasures of Île-de-France.

The town of Houdan in the Yvelines is pulling out all the stops, staging a two-day festival. For the National Day, this charming medieval town and its keep will welcome you starting the evening of July 13, 2026, with a wealth of free and entertaining activities for friends and family.

The occasion also to discover the city's history and its many secrets, well guarded since the Middle Ages, including the donjon du XIIe siècle, the Église Saint-Jacques‑le‑Majeur‑et‑Saint‑Christophe, the Gothic edifice with a Montserrat pilgrimage fresco (1582) and a restored 1739 Cliquot organ, or the remnants of the ramparts, witnesses to medieval fortifications.

• To be read
• Fireworks for Bastille Day 2026 in Seine-Saint-Denis (93): the program
• Fireworks on July 13 and 14, 2026 in Yvelines (78): the department’s program
• Fireworks on July 13 and 14, 2026 in Val d'Oise (95): the best tips

The 2026 Bastille Day program for Houdan (Yvelines):

• July 13 at 9:45 p.m.: a torch-lit procession with lanterns handed out
• 10:45 p.m.: the parade begins, featuring the Dixmude’s majorettes and the marching band
• 11:00 p.m.: fireworks display
• until 2:00 a.m.: a lively public dance
• July 14, from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.: a countryside-style picnic lunch
• from 3:00 p.m.: activities and games for all ages

Bastille Day 2026 in Paris & Île-de-France, where to watch fireworks in the inner suburbs on July 13–14?
Every year, for Bastille Day, the iconic fireworks show lights up the sky from the Eiffel Tower. But did you know that the towns in the inner suburbs also host their own displays? A quick tour of festive programs within easy reach of the Metro, awaiting you this year between July 13 and 14, 2026. [Read more]