PARIS (AP) — Warplanes soared overhead, troops paraded down the Champs-Élysées, and fireworks lit up skies across the country as France celebrated Bastille Day on Monday with its trademark blend of military spectacle and revolutionary spirit.
The national holiday commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison on July 14, 1789, a turning point that ignited the French Revolution and eventually ended the monarchy. Now a day of national unity and pride, Bastille Day showcases France’s commitment to democratic values and military strength.
In Paris, more than 7,000 participants — on foot, horseback, and armored vehicles — marched beneath the Arc de Triomphe. President Emmanuel Macron reviewed the troops and rekindled the eternal flame, setting the tone for the day’s celebrations.
A standout in the parade was the French Foreign Legion, whose soldiers carried axes and wore traditional leather aprons, reflecting their original role as route clearers. A brief mishap occurred when a Republican Guard officer fell from his horse, but both rider and animal were unharmed.
The day culminated with fighter jets trailing red, white, and blue smoke, followed by an evening drone light show and fireworks display at the Eiffel Tower, more elaborate than ever before.
This year’s guest of honor was Indonesia, represented by President Prabowo Subianto and a 200-strong delegation that included traditional drummers. The visit is expected to include announcements on defense deals, including new Rafale fighter jet purchases.
“This is a very important and historic military and diplomatic collaboration,” said Brig. Gen. Ferry Irawan, who led the Indonesian military contingent.
Finnish, Belgian, and Luxembourg troops also joined the parade, symbolizing international unity amid global security concerns. One notable guest in the crowd was Fousseynou Samba Cissé, a Parisian hailed as a hero after rescuing two children from a fire earlier this month. He received a personal invitation from Macron.
The festivities came against the backdrop of heightened security and global instability. On the eve of Bastille Day, Macron pledged an additional €6.5 billion in military spending over the next two years. He warned of rising threats from Russia, cyberattacks, and terrorism, stating, “Since 1945, our freedom has never been so seriously threatened.”
Bastille Day is also a moment for national honors. This year’s Legion of Honor recipients included Gisèle Pelicot, a survivor and activist against sexual violence, Holocaust survivor Yvette Levy, musician Pharrell Williams, and Louis Vuitton designer Pharrell Williams.
Across France, families gathered, firefighters hosted festive balls, and villages held local celebrations, bringing the spirit of liberty, equality, and fraternity alive once again.