It's a long-awaited tradition in France: on July 14, the French celebrate the storming of the Bastille, and the end of absolute monarchy, on a festive public holiday. During the day, numerous popular activities and events bring the population together. Every year, there's a grand military parade down the Champs-Elysées, a concert in Paris, fireworks displays, firemen's balls and popular dances...
These celebrations are most often held on July 14, but not exclusively: many communes extend the festive period by offering events on July 13 or 15, depending on the calendar. However, these major annual events are not always guaranteed.
In fact, for a variety of reasons, fireworks displays or fire department balls can be cancelled at the last minute. Quite often, it's the weather that 's to blame: during a heatwave or drought, fireworks displays can cause fires, and are therefore prohibited. Conversely, if it rains too much or there are thunderstorms, the conditions are not right either, and the fireworks display has to be cancelled.
So, will we be able to enjoy the National Day celebrations in 2026? What weather can we expect on July 13 and 14 in Paris and in Île-de-France? Here’s what Météo France has to say.
This year's Bastille Day unfolds amid a heat spike, with temperatures topping 30°C under a sky that’s only partly cloudy across the Paris region. On Monday, July 13, 2026, the high is forecast to reach around 34°C in the afternoon, cooling to about 31°C by evening.
The next morning, as the military parade rolls along the Champs-Élysées, the public can expect a rather cloudy start with around 28°C. In the afternoon, the sun returns and temperatures rise to about 32°C before easing to roughly 29°C in the evening.
Stay tuned to Sortiraparis.com to find out whether or not the National Day celebrations are still on.
Dates and Opening Time
From July 13, 2026 to July 14, 2026
