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Issue — July 2026
Bastille Day: France Remembers a Revolution

Bastille Day: France Remembers a Revolution

B1 News Article 32 sentences
Bastille Day: France Remembers a Revolution 0 / 32

Every July 14th, France celebrates freedom, fireworks, and the day a famous prison fell in 1789.

A Day in 1789

On July 14, 1789, something important happened in Paris. A large crowd of people stormed a famous prison called the Bastille. At that time, France was under the control of a monarch, King Louis XVI. Many people were poor and hungry, while the king and nobles lived in luxury. The attack on the prison became a powerful symbol of the French revolution.

Bastille Day: France Remembers a Revolution — image 2

What the Bastille Was

The Bastille was not an ordinary prison. It held people the king did not like, including writers and political thinkers. The building was old and very strong, with tall stone walls. Today, nothing is left of the original structure, but a special bridge marks the place where it once stood. Visitors can learn about the ideas of freedom and equality that the revolution spread across France.

The Big Parade in Paris

Every year, France holds a huge parade on the Champs-Élysées, one of the most famous streets in the world. The military walks down the street, and planes fly above the city. The French president watches the ceremony and gives a short speech to remember the anniversary. Thousands of people stand along the road to watch soldiers, tanks, and music bands pass by. It is a moment when the country feels proud and united.

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Fireworks and Parties

After the parade, the real fun begins. In the evening, cities and small towns light up the sky with bright fireworks. People gather in parks, by rivers, or on balconies to celebrate together. In Paris, a popular tradition is a large concert and fireworks show near the Eiffel Tower. Many families also have picnics with bread, cheese, and wine. It is one of the most popular nights of the year in France.

A Day Around the World

Bastille Day is not only a French event. French communities in other countries also celebrate the holiday. In the United States, cities like New Orleans hold parades and parties with French food and music. Some places even invite military bands from France to play in the streets. The day reminds people everywhere that the ideas of freedom and equality belong to everyone, not just one country.

Quiz

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  1. 1When did the storming of the Bastille happen?

    The article clearly states that the prison was stormed on July 14, 1789.

  2. 2What did the attack on the Bastille mainly become?

    According to the article, the attack became a powerful symbol of the French Revolution.

  3. 3Where does the main Bastille Day parade take place in Paris?

    The article says the parade goes down the Champs-Élysées, one of the most famous streets in the world.

  4. 4Which famous Paris landmark is near the Bastille Day fireworks show?

    The article mentions a large concert and fireworks show near the Eiffel Tower.

  5. 5Which statement about Bastille Day is also true, according to the article?

    The article says French communities in other countries, such as New Orleans, also celebrate the day.