The biggest celebration in the French calendar, Bastille Day is a fantastic event taking place across the whole of the country.

Commemorating the storming of the Bastille prison that sparked the French revolution that eventually led to the downfall of Louis XVI and the rest of the monarchy, July 14th has been a national holiday in France since 1880.

Although each city and town marks this event in its own way, the most spectacular example of celebrations takes place in Paris.

The eve of the holiday is spent dancing at a number of balls around the city, including a special outdoor gay ball, while those less inclined to dance can eat at the Incredible Picnic.

On the day itself the president leads an impressive military parade marches up the Champs-Elysees, from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde.

The holiday culminates with a magnificent firework display, while many clubs around the city welcome revellers throughout the night.

Bastille Day is also marked at a number of locations around the world, including a huge celebration in New York City.