Paris Bastille Day 2026: Why the Fireworks Are on July 13 Instead of July 14

Planning to Visit Paris During Bastille Day?

If you're travelling to Paris between July 13 and July 14, 2026, there's one important change that could completely affect your itinerary.

Many visitors automatically book restaurants, Seine River cruises and Eiffel Tower experiences for the evening of July 14, expecting to see the traditional Bastille Day fireworks.

In 2026, that would be a mistake.

The famous Concert de Paris, the Eiffel Tower fireworks, and the spectacular drone show will all take place on Monday, July 13, while Bastille Day itself remains on July 14.

Before booking anything, here's everything you need to know.

Bastille Day 2026 at a Glance

Why Are the Fireworks on July 13?

The schedule has changed only for 2026.

Because July 14, 2026 marks the 10th anniversary of the Nice attack, France will dedicate the National Day to official commemorations.

To allow these ceremonies to take place, the City of Paris has moved the evening celebrations—including the Concert de Paris, the fireworks, and the drone show—to July 13.

France's National Day itself has not changed.

How Should You Plan Your Paris Trip?

If you're visiting Paris only for these two days, this itinerary will help you experience the highlights without missing anything.

July 13

✔ Visit the Louvre Museum in the morning

✔ Enjoy lunch nearby

✔ Take a Seine River Cruise during the afternoon or early evening

✔ Watch the Concert de Paris

✔ Finish your evening with the Eiffel Tower fireworks

Planning to visit the Louvre?

Book your Louvre Museum tickets in advance, as July 13 will be significantly busier than usual due to the July 14 closure. If you want expert commentary on the highlights, the Louvre entry ticket with Mona Lisa digital audio guide is a practical upgrade.

Want the best view of the fireworks without waiting for hours?

Compare Seine River Cruise options and choose an afternoon or early evening departure before security restrictions begin.

July 14

✔ Watch the Military Parade on the Champs-Élysées

✔ Visit the Musée d'Orsay

✔ Explore Les Invalides

✔ Enjoy dinner in Saint-Germain-des-Prés

What Happens on July 13?

The evening follows the traditional Bastille Day celebration:

• Concert de Paris at Champ de Mars
• Eiffel Tower fireworks at 11 PM
• Drone show
• Firemen's Balls (Bals des Pompiers)
• Thousands of spectators across central Paris

Expect large crowds from mid-afternoon onwards.

Is the Eiffel Tower Open?

Unfortunately not.

The Eiffel Tower will be closed on July 13 while preparations take place for the fireworks display.

Access on July 14 is also heavily restricted because of the National Day celebrations.

If visiting the Eiffel Tower is one of your priorities, schedule your Eiffel Tower visit before July 13 or after July 14.

Best Places to Watch the Fireworks

Seine River Cruise ⭐

One of the most comfortable options.

Instead of standing for hours on the Champ de Mars, you'll enjoy panoramic views from the river while passing many of Paris' most famous landmarks. Book a Seine River Cruise ticket for the afternoon or early evening of July 13, or save the Seine River Cruise by night for another evening of your stay.

Champ de Mars

The official viewing area beneath the Eiffel Tower.

Free to access but extremely crowded.

Arrive several hours early.

Trocadéro

The classic postcard view.

Perfect for photography but expect heavy security and long waiting times.

Paris Bridges

Some of the best alternatives include:

• Pont Bir-Hakeim
• Pont Alexandre III
• Pont de l'Alma
• Pont de la Concorde

Which Museums Are Open?

Planning museums around the holiday is just as important as planning the fireworks.

This simple change can save you from arriving at a closed museum. You can browse all Paris museum tickets in one place.

Getting Around Paris

Expect significant transport restrictions.

The busiest areas around the Eiffel Tower will have security checkpoints and temporary Metro station closures.

For July 13:

• Use Metro instead of taxis.
• Avoid driving near the Eiffel Tower.
• Arrive early.
• Check RATP updates before travelling.

Travel Tips

✔ Reserve museums in advance.

✔ Book Seine River cruises as early as possible, or try the Seine cruise with French crêpe tasting near the tower.

✔ Confirm restaurant reservations.

✔ Arrive early for the fireworks.

✔ Wear comfortable shoes.

✔ Expect airport-style security checks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bastille Day still on July 14?

Yes. France's National Day remains July 14. Only the fireworks celebration has moved to July 13.

Can I visit the Louvre on July 14?

No. The Louvre is closed because July 14 falls on a Tuesday, its regular weekly closing day. Book your Louvre tickets for July 13 instead.

Is the Eiffel Tower open?

No. It is closed on July 13 and access is heavily restricted on July 14.

Should I book a Seine River Cruise on July 13?

Yes, if you want to experience the fireworks from the water. Afternoon and early-evening Seine River Cruise departures are the safest choice due to security restrictions.

Final Thoughts

If you're visiting Paris during Bastille Day 2026, remember one simple rule:

Fireworks on July 13. National Day on July 14.

Planning around this exceptional schedule will help you avoid disappointment, visit museums on the right days, and enjoy one of the most memorable weeks of the year in Paris. If the fireworks are your priority, book your Seine River Cruise for July 13 as early as you can.