If you love the buzz of fireworks on the Fourth of July, the feeling of everyone coming together to celebrate, and those uniquely American traditions — you might be wondering: Do European countries have days like this? The answer is yes — and they’re amazing.

Europe is full of national day celebrations, and while each one is different, they all give travelers the chance to connect with local pride, history, and joy in a way you just can’t get on an ordinary sightseeing tour. Whether you're chasing the magic of summer nights or curious about winter traditions, here are my favorite European national days worth planning a trip around.

🇫🇷 Bastille Day – France (July 14)

Where to be: Paris

This is the French party of the year. In Paris, things kick off with a grand military parade on the Champs-Élysées and end with one of the most iconic firework displays in the world — lighting up the Eiffel Tower in spectacular fashion. Local neighborhoods host firefighters' balls, where you can actually dance in a fire station. It’s quirky, fun, and very French.

🇳🇴 Constitution Day – Norway (May 17)

Where to be: Oslo or Bergen

If you’re looking for wholesome, joyful energy, this is it. Think kids in national dress, flag-waving parades, marching bands, and more hot dogs and ice cream than you thought one country could handle. In Oslo, the royal family greets parade-goers from the palace balcony, but even in smaller towns like Bergen, it’s a full-on celebration of all things Norwegian.

🇨🇭 Swiss National Day – Switzerland (August 1)

Where to be: Lucerne or the Alps

Switzerland’s national day is all about tradition and scenery. Picture bonfires on mountaintops, alp horn concerts, cowbells, and a festive calm that fits the Swiss vibe perfectly. Lucerne offers a great mix of lakeside fun and fireworks, but if you want something rustic and magical, head into the Alps and celebrate with locals over raclette and red wine.

🇪🇸 National Day – Spain (October 12)

Where to be: Madrid

Spain’s national day comes with all the pageantry and passion you’d expect. Madrid hosts a large military parade, with flyovers and lots of national pride. It’s a great chance to see the royal family in person, and many major museums offer free entry. It’s less street-party, more historic homage — but very much worth the trip.

🇵🇹 Portugal Day – Portugal (June 10)

Where to be: Lisbon or Porto

This one’s a sleeper hit. Portugal Day honors national poet Luís de Camões, but it’s really about celebrating Portuguese culture. In Lisbon and Porto, expect concerts, street parties, and patriotic displays. And if you time it right, you’ll overlap with the Santos Populares — a full-on street festival with grilled sardines, paper garlands, and dancing until sunrise.

🇮🇸 National Day – Iceland (June 17)

Where to be: Reykjavík

This one’s for travelers who like quirky celebrations. Reykjavík throws a day-long party with parades, street performers, and lots of hot dogs (yes, Icelanders take them seriously). The sun barely sets in June, so the party stretches into the "night." It’s casual, upbeat, and gives you a rare glimpse of Icelanders really letting loose.

🇭🇺 St. Stephen’s Day – Hungary (August 20)

Where to be: Budapest

Budapest goes all-out with this one. St. Stephen’s Day marks the founding of the Hungarian state with fireworks over the Danube, folk music, and food festivals. One charming tradition: the “blessing of the new bread,” celebrating Hungary’s agricultural roots. It’s a warm, festive way to soak in history, culture, and carbs.

Tips for Experiencing National Days in Europe:

• Book early: Hotels fill fast during national celebrations.
• Participate respectfully: Locals love it when travelers join in — whether you’re dancing, waving a flag, or trying a new dish.
• Ask locals where to go: Big cities are great, but smaller towns often offer a more authentic and personal experience.
• Be camera-ready: From parades to fireworks to folk costumes, these are memory-making moments.

Final Thought

If you love the sense of unity and celebration that comes with the Fourth of July, you’ll find that same spirit across Europe — just dressed in different colors, languages, and traditions. Time your trip right, and you’ll not only see the sights but feel the soul of the country you’re visiting.