This day is distinctly different from an ordinary weekend or day off. People across the country will set aside their daily chores and plans, perhaps gathering near the Eiffel Tower, or simply lounging around or hosting large gatherings. The atmosphere in each place is distinctly different
Most people refer to it as "Bastille Day," right?I think everyone knows that it began in 1789 when a large group of people stormed into the Bastille. In a small caf é in a special district, I was chatting with a local resident who mentioned that it was not just about demolishing a prison building, although it was indeed an important moment. Those diligent individuals toiled day after day without any reward, fed up with being manipulated, treated rudely, and unfairly. They resented the old rules that allowed only the wealthy and aristocracy to live a carefree life. The Bastille symbolized the entire unfair system, and thus, overthrowing it became the first step towards building a better life - one of freedom, equal treatment, and solidarity, which were the fundamental ideals behind the French Revolution. Over 90 years after the Bastille incident in 1880, this day was officially declared a national holiday! At that time, there was a heated debate about which day to celebrate nationwide. Some people want to commemorate the day when the king was executed, while others randomly choose a meaningful date from the revolution. In the end, people chose July 14th because on this day, fireworks will be set off directly on the Eiffel Tower in Paris, attracting almost all city residents to watch together. A group of people sat on the grass by the Seine River, passing a few bottles of delicious red wine. The nighttime fireworks display was the highlight of the day. Moreover, everyone gathers in the main city square, with children sitting on their parents' shoulders. After the fireworks display, local bakeries distribute free croissants with butter to those who stay behind.
What I like most about the French National Day is that it's not just for the locals. At these street parties, people from various countries such as Germany, Spain, and Japan are welcomed. The locals shared food with us and showed us their little customs, making us feel like we belonged there. This made you realize that those great revolutionary ideals - freedom, equal rights, and mutual care - are not unique to any one country. They belong to everyone, no matter where you come from in the world.
