Bastille Day in Marseille

July 14, 2023

Every year, the people of Marseille and visitors to the city gather in the streets and on the Old Port to celebrate Bastille Day. Evenings are organized to ensure front-row seats for the unmissable fireworks display, fired as usual over the Vieux-Port and Fort d’Entrecasteaux – let’s just hope the Mistral doesn’t join the party this year!

Published on 7 July 2023

The military parade

This year, the launch of the military ceremony will begin at 5pm on the Vieux Port (Old Port).
A 6:15pm it will be the air parade that will enchant the skies of Marseille.
A 6:20pm, it will be the turn of the land military parade that will parade on the Port.

Fireworks

This year, the town promises an exceptional fireworks display. Fired as every year from the Old Port and Fort d’Entrecasteaux, spectators will be able to admire a majestic fireworks display accompanied by a soundtrack for almost 30 minutes.
The fireworks will start at dusk around 10:30pm. The Old Port will be completely pedestrianized, and the Pharo Gardens, exceptionally closed throughout the day, will open its doors from 7pm.
In order to limit the impact on the environment, the parts used to package the fireworks are made from biodegradable materials (paper, cardboard, felt).

Find the best places to watch the July 14th fireworks

Did you know?

The first fireworks display in Europe took place in 1612 on the Place des Vosges in Paris, for the wedding of Louis XIII and Anne of Austria.
It wasn’t until 1880 that it became the flagship event of the July 14th festivities.

Evening events

On a boat

The shipping company Localanque is offering an unforgettable private evening aboard one of its quayside boats, located between the town hall and the Mucem, you’ll have a front-row seat to watch the fireworks. Borderline et Croisières Marseille Calanques invites you to board the Illienne and head out to sea for an evening concert DJ set and enjoy the fireworks!

Partying

Several venues welcome you to celebrate our national holiday in style, between music and fireworks, the party will be on! Ciel Rooftop offers you an unforgettable evening with DJ set and cocktail reception, rendez-vous from 7pm. An evening on the unmissable R2 Rooftop on the Port terraces, starting at 7pm! Les Grandes Halles du Vieux-Port are decked out in blue, white and red, and await you to celebrate our National Holiday. Crazy cocktails and good humor will be the watchwords of the evening!

At the hotel

The Sofitel Vieux-Port offers you an exceptional evening with a breathtaking view of the Old Port, at the bar, in the brasserie or in your room with terrace you’ll be facing the show. L’intercontinental Marseille awaits you on its terrace to celebrate July 14th. A magical view of Marseille under Cuban and electro sounds! a chic BBQ evening!