On 14 July 2025, France once again came together to commemorate its national day, known as Bastille Day, with the tradition and pride that have characterised this occasion since it was first declared a public holiday in 1880.
Published on Jul 21,2025 at 8:59 AM | Updated on Sep 11,2025 at 4:24 PM

As is customary, the focal point of celebrations was the grand military parade on the Champs-Élysées in Paris, bringing together military personnel and dignitaries. This year’s edition held special significance, marked by important commemorations and international partnerships.

 

France’s 2025 Parade: Unity and International Partnerships

Presided over by President Emmanuel MACRON, the 2025 Bastille Day parade followed its traditional route from the Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde. Over 7,000 participants, including 5,600 troops on foot, 250 military vehicles, 100 aircraft, and 200 cavalry horses took part. 

Indonesia, the guest of honour in 2025, marked 75 years of diplomatic ties with France by opening the parade with a 450-strong military delegation. Their participation highlighted deepening defence cooperation between Jakarta and Paris. Also recognised was the Franco-Finnish Force Commander Reserve, currently deployed in Lebanon, a symbol of France’s ongoing commitment to multilateral peacekeeping.

But while Paris’ parade may be the oldest and most high-profile in Europe, military parades continue to be a powerful tradition across the globe.

Two historic milestones were commemorated during the day. The first was the centenary of the Bleuet de France, a symbol of remembrance and support for veterans. The second marked 100 years of the Comité de la Flamme, the organisation responsible for maintaining the eternal flame under the Arc de Triomphe. 

 

Global Showcases of Power, Memory and Unity

Such parades are far more than ceremonial pageantry. They are moments of visibility and meaning, where nations celebrate their military heritage, honour alliances, and reflect on shared sacrifices. The United States held its own grand spectacle in June to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the U.S. Army. Centred around Arlington and Washington, D.C., the parade included 6,600 soldiers from 11 divisions, along with military vehicles, helicopters, and fighter jets.

Military parades in India date back to the medieval times. It continues its longstanding tradition of Republic Day parades every 26 January. Held on Delhi’s ceremonial Rajpath, the parade honours the adoption of the Constitution and pays tribute to the armed forces and defence achievements. With colourful tableaux, cultural performances, and a strong display of indigenous military hardware, it is as much about national identity as it is about military power.

South Africa’s military parade tradition blends Dutch and British influences, evolving into a unique national style. Formally established in 1912 and restructured in 1994, the South African National Defence Force integrates diverse military legacies, including former regional, Bantustan, and guerrilla forces. Each year, a different branch organises the national parade in a chosen host city, showcasing the country’s inclusive defence heritage and commitment to unity through shared tradition.

 

Enduring Traditions in the Commonwealth and Latin America

In Australia and New Zealand, military parades take a more solemn tone. Anzac Day on 25 April commemorates all Australians and New Zealanders and Tongans "who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations". Veterans, active personnel, youth cadets, and emergency services march together in cities across both countries, blending memory with intergenerational continuity. Remembrance Day parades on 11 November serve a similar purpose, reinforcing the countries’ military ties to the UK and to each other.

Brazil also boasts a long tradition of military parades rooted in its colonial and imperial past. Influenced by Portuguese, Spanish, French and German military styles, modern Brazilian parades often feature high-stepping drills and vibrant ceremonial elements. These parades continue to reflect Brazil’s complex historical identity and military culture.

 

From Ceremony to Diplomacy

The military parade, once a pure expression of martial strength, has evolved. Today, these events serve a mix of purposes: marking national anniversaries, showcasing defence capabilities, or reflecting international partnerships. Whether it’s Indonesia opening the Bastille Day parade in Paris, or joint Commonwealth commemorations in Australia and New Zealand, these occasions highlight the ongoing presence of military tradition in state protocol diplomatic tradition.