July 14th is the French national day, which is celebrated in every city in France. Like every year, Bordeaux will hold a series of popular events and parties in the city center as well as the surrounding towns.
The main event in Bordeaux is the fireworks over the Garonne River on July 14, at 22:30. Starting from the early evening hours of July 14, many activities and games for kids will take place in the city center. You can find the program on the website of the city hall of Bordeaux.
Bal Pompiers in Bordeaux
Bals Pompiers are traditional firemen parties taking place in many cities in France on July 13 and 14, the French national day. Bordeaux’s firemen will also celebrate the national day with a few parties of their own.
Bal Pompiers Ornano
One of the biggest ones will take place at the Ornano Fire Academy (Meriadeck) on July 13, check more details here.
Bal des pompiers de la Benauge
Another big party is Bal de la Benauge, taking place on July 13 at the Benauge fire station, Check more details here. This fire station is located on the other side of the river at Quai Deschamps.
Château Lescombes
Another fun Bal is hosted by Château Lescombes in Eysines on July 13.See all the details here.
Saint-Médard-en-Jalles
The city of Saint-Médard-en-Jalles is hosting a traditional Bal Pompiers at le Bords de Jalle de Gajac on July 13- starting at 19:00 – info.
Fireworks and festivities in other towns around Bordeaux
There are usually fireworks in almost every town in the Bordeaux Metropole; however, this year, many of them have been cancelled due to the heat wave. Here you can find the list of all the canceled events.
Other fun events on July 13- 14 in the Bordeaux region
Le 14 juillet à Arcachon
A festive day is going to take place in the town of Arcachon on July 14 with an official ceremony and concerts and a beautiful light show in the evening. See info here.
Arcachon Port Festival
Arcachon’s port is hosting a party at Halle de l’Aiguillon on July 13. See all the details here.
Music O Teich
Music O Teich is a festival taking place at the port of Le Teich in Bassin d’Arcachon on July 12-14. The event includes a big creators’ market and free concerts every night and fireworks on July 14. For more info click here.
Medieval Mayhem at Château de Villandraut
On Monday, July 14, the Fête des Fous returns for a day of medieval madness! Expect masked parades, fire shows, falconry, artisan markets, and hands-on workshops—from calligraphy to stone carving. A full day of fun for just 5€. See info here.
* See other events taking place in Bordeaux in July and August.
You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France via lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here: