14 July marks the National Holiday in France. On this occasion, numerous fireworks displays are held throughout France. A free show that puts stars in the eyes of young and old alike.
The bank holidays of 14 July in Annecy
Every year, Annecy celebrates the Bastille Day in style. Activitiesare proposed throughout the day on the Pâquier and in the Jardins de l’Europe, such as the funny hat creation workshop or the face painting stand.
As for the fireworks, they will be fired from the Pâquier esplanade after dark. So remember to take your place sufficiently in advance to be able to fully enjoy the show without being too embarrassed. Other spots can also allow you to enjoy the show, while being higher up. These include Veyrier and Semnoz or the heights of Talloires and Groisy.
Where to go to see the fireworks?
As not everyone appreciates fireworks in the same way, here are a few tips for choosing the right spot for you. The more sporty ones can decide to climb the Veyrier or the Semnoz and come back down with the headlamp once the show is over. With friends, we recommend the Pâquier and surrounding areas, to finish the evening in the town centre or at the Impérial. And for families, it all depends on the age of your children. If they are small, it is better to opt for Groisy or the heights of Talloires. You will thus preserve their ears and avoid crying fits.
Practical information to enjoy the evening
An event in Annecy means parking problems and traffic jams to get back home. It is therefore better to park as far away from the Pâquier as possible. Think, for example, of the last free streets around the avenue de Cran, the Petit Port, the Marquisats or even the area around the stadium. As for the buses, they operate on a Sunday and public holiday basis. And if you have pets, they are welcome. However, we advise you not to take them with you if you are planning to attend the fireworks.
July 14th festivities around Annecy
For those who live around Annecy and do not wish to travel to the city centre, preferring to enjoy the beach until late in the evening, other towns offer festivities on the occasion of the National Holiday. Many sports clubs join forces with town halls to offer evenings combining meals and dancing. In some villages, the youngest can also marvel at the lantern parades or play with wooden games. Music lovers can enjoy concerts by local bands.
The National Holiday is not just about fireworks, but rather a time for sharing. Depending on where you decide to go to enjoy the entertainment, remember to check the date of the event. In several communes, the festivities take place on 13 July. Others will wait until the weekend. With this information in your pocket, there is nothing to stop you from following the events over several days and in various villages, such as :
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Annecy-le-Vieux.
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Manigod.
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La Clusaz.
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Sevrier.
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Talloires.
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Menthon-Saint-Bernard.
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Veyrier-du-Lac.
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Alby-sur-Chéran.
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Thônes.
If you are not in the area this week, don’t worry, you can always make up for it by attending the Lake Annecy Festival! One of the most famous fireworks shows in Europe, withover an hour of fireworks, will fill your eyes.
Where to stay in Annecy for July 14th?
If you are visiting the region for the 14th of July, here are some ideas of places to stay in the centre of Annecy.
The Youth Hostel – Annecy Hostel
The Annecy Youth Hostel is just a stone’s throw from the city centre. You can easily take advantage of the 1,000 m² garden and go down to Annecy to enjoy the Fête Nationale.
From 22 euros per night.
Le Pélican
This 4-star hotel has 101 rooms. It is ideally located at the bottom of the old hospital hill. From the rooftop you can easily enjoy the fireworks.
From €553 per night.
Rivage Hotel
This hotel is located opposite the Albigny beach in Annecy-le-Vieux. In addition to enjoying the 1,000 m² spa, you won’t have to drive back to watch the fireworks from the Paquier esplanade.
From 410 euros per night.
Best Western International
This 3-star hotel is located near Annecy train station. The 133 rooms are air-conditioned and it is also possible to relax in the spa or do some sport in the fitness room.
From €82 per night.
And of course, you can also choose to rent a flat in the Old Town or a little further away, in a quieter corner.
More information
If you would like to have more information on the 2022 edition of the National Holiday in the Venice of the Alps, as well as on the previous ones, find our articles dedicated to the subject. You will find all the dates of the festivities in Annecy and the surrounding area, as well as the timetable.
