National Day of Gif-sur-Yvette

National Day in Gif-sur-Yvette

The town of Gif-sur-Yvette, nestled in the Chevreuse valley near the Saclay plateau, celebrates the National Day each year with an evening that is festive, friendly, and original. The festivities take place on the evening of July 13th in the green setting of the Parc du Château de Belleville, offering an exceptional backdrop for this republican celebration.

The Republican Picnic

From 7:30 PM, residents are invited to settle on the park lawns for the republican picnic, a convivial moment par excellence. The town encourages everyone to bring their tablecloth, picnic basket, and reusable tableware, in an eco-responsible approach. Six food stands offer various specialties: poké bowls, burgers, churros, crêpes, Italian ice cream, pizzas, fries, sausages, and cold drinks to complement homemade baskets.

The ENS Paris-Saclay Fanfare

At 8:30 PM, the fanfare L'Ernestophone from the École Normale Supérieure Paris-Saclay opens the musical festivities. This atypical and festive group, known for its infectious energy, leads the public in a joyful musical procession through the park. A unique moment that blends academic excellence and popular festive spirit.

Fireworks and Ball

At 11:00 PM, the sky above the Château de Belleville ignites with a pop culture themed fireworks display, custom-choreographed. Colorful bursts follow palm trees and cascades of light in a pyrotechnic finale that beautifully concludes the night. From 9:30 PM and after the fireworks, the band Wanted Revival takes over for a lively ball that lasts until the end of the night.

Gif-sur-Yvette, City of Science and Nature

A university and scientific city of approximately 21,000 inhabitants, Gif-sur-Yvette is renowned for its world-class research centers (CEA, CNRS, CentraleSupélec) and its preserved natural setting on the edge of the Haute Vallée de Chevreuse Regional Natural Park. The National Day brings together students, researchers, and families in a spirit of sharing and openness.