July 14 is fast approaching and Montpellier is preparing to celebrate the National Day in a sumptuous way. But what does the city really have in store for this occasion? Between shows, concerts, fireworks and the firefighters’ ball, immerse yourself in the heart of the festivities and let yourself be carried away by the well-kept secrets of the program for this memorable day!
By Julien Dupont
Every year, Montpellier is transformed to celebrate the National Holiday with a multitude of spectacular activities and events. From the spectacular fireworks display to the open-air concerts, including the traditional torchlight procession, discover everything that awaits you during these two days of festivities. Get ready to immerse yourself in a festive and exhilarating atmosphere!
Taking up arms
On July 13, the city of Montpellier invites you to attend the solemn taking up arms in the Peyrou garden. In the presence of the Prefect of Hérault, François-Xavier Lauch, and the mayor of Montpellier, Michaël Delafosse, this highlight will be marked by a military parade at 6 p.m. This exercise, which is part of the fundamental rituals of our army, will pay tribute, this year, to the 160 years of commitment of the Red Cross.
The torchlight procession
That same evening, from 8:30 p.m., don’t miss the traditional torchlight procession. The children, equipped with lanterns and Phrygian caps in the national colors, will parade from the Place de la ComĂ©die to the Place Royale du Peyrou. The RĂ©veil Cournonterralais group will lead this patriotic procession. The actual departure of the procession is scheduled for 9:30 p.m.
The sound and light show
When the torchlight procession arrives, at 10:15 p.m., Place Royale du Peyrou will light up with a breathtaking sound and light show. The water tower in the Peyrou garden will serve as the backdrop for a digital projection in homage to Victor Hugo. Two actors will invite themselves on stage for an immersion in the century of the Romantics, recalling the periods of Empire and Republic, as well as the fight for democracy.
The firefighters’ ball
On July 14, firefighters ball is one of the most anticipated events. This emblematic event will be held this year at Charpak Park, located in the Port-Marianne district, from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Hosted by Montpellier DJs, including Damien Inesta and Olivier Darock, this ball is organized by the Montpellier firefighters association. A thirty-minute break is planned during the fireworks display, to fully enjoy this explosion of colors.
The open-air concert
As part of the Radio France festival, the Choir and orchestra of the Montpellier National Opera will offer a open air concert on the Square of the Town Hall, from 9 p.m. Under the direction of Didier Benetti and with Noëlle Gény as choir director, this concert promises to transport you through the ages, with works ranging from Mozart to Mikis Theodorakis.
The firework
To close the festivities, the fireworks of Montpellier will light up the sky from 11 p.m. This thirty-minute fireworks show will take place in Charpak Park and will revolve around the theme of the Olympic Games. Prepare to be amazed by this explosion of colors and lights.