July, 2015 – Graham Miln

La Fête nationale in Lyon

Yesterday, France celebrated it’s national day, La Fête nationale. Also known as Le quatorze juillet and, in English, Bastille Day.

This was our third year celebrating the day in Lyon. We knew where to go and where to expect crowds. The best view of the fireworks is along the east shore of river Saône.

The crowds felt less in number this year. We had room to walk around and generally the atmosphere was good.

If we are still in Lyon next year, I suspect we will try for a picnic on the bank of the river Rhône. The area seemed calmer, more relaxed, and more festive that the amped river Saône crowd.

Bridge spanning the river Rhône in Lyon.
Bridge spanning the river Rhône in Lyon.

Man plays music to the crowds.
Man plays music to the crowds.

Rotisserie chickens wait to be bought.
Rotisserie chickens wait to be bought.

Looking up to the Basilica from Lyon’s city centre.
Looking up to the Basilica from Lyon’s city centre.

Police watch the crowds and traffic.
Police watch the crowds and traffic.

Musicians entertain the passing crowds.
Musicians entertain the passing crowds.

Lyon’s Basilica remains illuminated until the fireworks begin.
Lyon’s Basilica remains illuminated until the fireworks begin.

Crowds wait for the fireworks.
Crowds wait for the fireworks.

Fireworks explode over the Lyon skyline.
Fireworks explode over the Lyon skyline.

Fireworks explode over the Lyon skyline.
Fireworks explode over the Lyon skyline.

The Basilica’s illumination is synchronised with the show.
The Basilica’s illumination is synchronised with the show.

Fireworks explode over the Lyon skyline.
Fireworks explode over the Lyon skyline.

After the fireworks, France’s flag colours are projected onto the Halls of Justice.
After the fireworks, France’s flag colours are projected onto the Halls of Justice.