July 14 marks Bastille Day in France, the national holiday which see's French people come together to celebrate their country. 

In France, it's known as either Fête nationale, literally translating to national party or celebration, or le quatorze juillet (July 14), with Bastille Day a name penned by English speaking countries. 

This is because July 14 is the anniversary of the Storming of the Bastille in 1789, which was a major event during the French revolution.

But why exactly is this date so significant in France and how is it celebrated? 

Here's everything you need to know...

What is Bastille day?

Fête nationale is essentially the day of France, celebrating the country, its culture and its people. 

Not only did July 14 see the Storming of the Bastille in 1789, it also marked the Fête de la Fédération (Festival of the Federation) one year later, which celebrated unity among the French people. 

On July 14 1790, representatives from around France descended on Paris and marched from the Bastille to the Champ-de-Mars.

Crowds made up of people from all backgrounds gathered to celebrate the new constitution which was signed, in part, as a result of the events of previous year, including the Storming of the Bastille. 

The Storming of the Bastille took place in response to discontent with the monarchy's dictatorial rule in France. 

The Bastille was a prison which held prisoners without providing reason for imprisonment; it was therefore seen as a symbol of the dictatorial rule of the monarchy. 

With discontent rife throughout France, groups stormed the Bastille on July 14 1979, marking the start of the French revolution which eventually led to the monarchy being overthrown and later abolished.  

How long has Bastille Day been celebrated?

Bastille Day has been recognised as a national holiday in France since 1880. 

How is it celebrated today?

A military parade, like that of the Fête de la Fédération in 1790, still takes place today in Paris on July 14 every year, but now it is held on the Champs-Élysées.

The parade will take place this year, however spectators will be required to wear masks and show proof of either a vaccine, a negative test or Covid antibodies. 

A huge fireworks display is held in the evening, with specatators again required to wear face coverings.

Meanwhile, it is a national holiday across the country which people are likely to spend with family and friends.