Independence Day around the world

Joyeux Quatorze Juillet! (Or Happy Bastille Day to the rest of you)

Celebrated on 14 July, this grand affair marks the storming of the Bastille fortress in 1789. It was a momentous event that helped topple King Louis XVI from the throne, kickstarting the French Revolution.

Formally called La Fête Nationale, it is celebrated not only in France, but in many countries around the world.

If you can get there, Paris is the place to be this Bastille Day. Celebrations will start in the morning, with a prestigious military parade down the Champs-Élysées. The entire military will be in full regalia as they march past the French president. The highlight is sure to be the planes flying overhead, blazing their trails of tricolor smoke.

After the parade, it's time to visit Champ de Mars park in front of the Eiffel Tower. Get yourself a good spot to enjoy the free concert in the evening, followed by a heart-stopping fireworks and laser show which is projected from all corners of the Eiffel Tower.

Fun fact 

The Constitution of France  gives the President authority to pardon criminals. But President Sarkozy put an end to the practice in 2007.

Independence Day around the world

In light of the occasion, we take a look at how other countries celebrate their independence:

India

On 15 August 1947, India gained its freedom from British rule. Prime Minister Jawahar Lal Nehru marked the occasion by unfurling India's flag over the Red Fort in Delhi.

This event is repeated each year, marking the official start of Independence Day. Flags are also hoisted in homes around the country.

A tradition befitting of this colourful, lively country is to fly special kites decorated in the national colours. In the days leading up to Independence Day the markets are filled with kites in all sorts of styles, sizes and shades.

On the day itself, the skies are dotted with kites flown from rooftops and fields to symbolise India's free spirit.

Colombia

In the 19th century, 400 years after Christopher Colombus discovered America, Colombia was governed by Spain. But the people couldn't have a government because they were born in America. So an uprising was led by heroes like Latin American commander, Simon Bolivar.

On 20 July 1810, Colombian patriots fought a victory in the streets to protest against Spanish rule, and independence was finally secured for Greater Colombia.

Colombians are very patriotic and Independence Day celebrations are marked by feasts, parades, parties and festivals centred around traditional folk dances and music.

Mexico

The celebration of Mexico's Independence Day, Grito de Delores, starts at 11pm on 15 September and continues until midnight on 16 September.

It marks the day in 1810 when Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla initiated Mexico’s War of Independence against the Spanish regime with a rousing battle cry.

Celebrations begin with a re-enactment ceremony conducted by the President, which is followed by parades held all the next day.

It is a lively and important event, and people celebrate by decorating their streets, houses, buildings and cars. On every street corner there are vendors selling flags, balloons, sombreros and rehiletes (shuttlecocks) in the national colours.

Have you ever been part of the Independence Day celebrations of another country? Tell us about it in the comments section below, or on our Twitter and Facebook pages.

Now is the perfect time to experience France, with 10% off Peregrine trips when you book by 31 July 2011*. Simply depart by 31 December 2011 to take advantage of this fantastic offer.

If you're ready to start planning, you can browse our trips then view a brochure online or order one for free.

• Tweet