Bastille Day is celebrated across the world and in Franchhoek, South Africa

Updated: 30 Sep 2019

The Bastille is a medieval fortress used as a prison by French kings. On 14 July 1789, troops stormed the Bastille and ended its reign over France. The move is seen as the beginning of the French revolution. Since that day, 14 July has been celebrated in France and in French communities all over the world.

In South Africa, the day is celebrated by the community of Franschoek. Activities include indulging in fine cuisine and French wine and dressing up in French gear.

How we know this

01Lawless L.K Bastille Day The French national holiday celebrates the beginning of the French Revolutionfrom About.com [online] Available at: https://french.about.com[Accessed on 4 July 2012]
02Time and date Bastille Day in France[online] Available at: https://www.timeanddate.com[Accessed on 4 July 2012]

Last updated · 30 Sep 2019

Cite this entry

South African History Online. (2012, July 13). Bastille Day is celebrated across the world and in Franchhoek, South Africa . South African History Online. https://sahistory.org.za/ref/E-0088195

South African History Online (2012) 'Bastille Day is celebrated across the world and in Franchhoek, South Africa ', South African History Online, 13 July. Available at: https://sahistory.org.za/ref/E-0088195 (Accessed: 8 November 2026).

South African History Online, Bastille Day is celebrated across the world and in Franchhoek, South Africa [website], https://sahistory.org.za/ref/E-0088195, (accessed 8 November 2026).

"Bastille Day is celebrated across the world and in Franchhoek, South Africa ." South African History Online, 13 July 2012, https://sahistory.org.za/ref/E-0088195. Accessed 8 Nov. 2026.

South African History Online. "Bastille Day is celebrated across the world and in Franchhoek, South Africa ." South African History Online. July 13, 2012. https://sahistory.org.za/ref/E-0088195.