Most people associate Bastille Day with celebrations across France, but there’s one place outside the country that marks the occasion in an official way.
That place is Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
On 14th July, the city once again hosts its annual French National Day celebrations, making it the only city outside France to officially recognise the occasion.
Fernando Clavijo to receive special recognition
This year’s event includes a tribute to Fernando Clavijo, President of the Canary Islands, who will receive an award from the French Consulate in recognition of his contribution to strengthening ties between France and the Canary Islands.
The presentation takes place during an official ceremony at Santa Cruz City Hall on Tuesday afternoon.
A gala dinner with one eye on the football
The celebrations don’t end with the formal ceremony.
Later in the evening, more than 150 French and Spanish guests are expected to attend a gala dinner organised by the French Consulate.
The timing couldn’t have been better…or worse, depending on your point of view.
The dinner takes place at the same time as the 2026 World Cup match between France and Spain, so organisers have decided to install large screens allowing everyone to follow the action while enjoying the evening.
It’s probably fair to say there’ll be plenty of friendly banter around the tables.
A celebration of friendship
Although France and Spain will be rivals for 90 minutes on the football pitch, the focus of the evening is very much on the close relationship between the two countries.
It’s a chance to celebrate French culture, strengthen international connections and, for one night at least, combine diplomacy with football.
Whether you’re supporting France or Spain, it sounds like it’ll be a memorable evening in Santa Cruz.