Once we’re done celebrating our own nation’s independence on July 4th, it’s time to transition to celebrate France’s Independence Day, also known as Bastille Day. Here’s everything you need to know about this July 14th celebration in New York, including all the oh la la you can handle in French food, fun, and entertainment. You don’t have to be French to immerse yourself in a truly European culture and all-things France. C’est magnifique!
So, What Is Bastille Day All About?
Bastille Day is also referred to as French National Day. It’s a holiday that commemorates the beginning of the French Revolution, with the Storming of the Bastille. The holiday itself is always July 14th, although New York celebrations will usually fall on the Sunday either before or after, depending on what day of the week the 14th falls on each year. And now that you know its origins let’s get into where you can go in New York City to enjoy some of the Bastille Day festivities.
Bastille Day Happens in Several Hotspots
The Consulate General of France is inviting everyone to come to Central Park on July 14th from 6:00 PM through 10:00 PM. More details will be available to come about this official celebration. Another one of the most popular Bastille Day celebrations takes place on 60th Street, between Fifth Avenue and Lexington Avenue. But there is still a host of other ways to enjoy iconic French food, enjoy live music, find one of many block parties, and partake in French National Day.
More venues, restaurants, and establishments will be announcing local celebrations, but you can always start planning now for:
- Coucou Bastille Day in Little Paris
- Bastille Day Boat Tours
- Pétanque Tournaments
Check Out FIAF’s Bastille Day Celebration
On Sunday, July 10th, between noon and 5:00 PM, you can fully immerse yourself in all things France with FIAF’s Bastille Day Celebration. Join the masses from 59th Street to 63rd Street, and for the first time on Madison Avenue, to sample mouth-watering French cuisine, dance, take in the cultural attractions, and partake in the joie de vivre!!
The French Institute Alliance Française has been celebrating Bastille Day in New York City for more than 20 years now. And they have an incredible spread lined up for this summer’s festivities.
- Wine and Champagne Tastings
- Sneak Peek Preview Screening of Azuro
- Chance to Win a Dream Getaway to France (Occitanie Region)
- Francophone Culture
- French Activities for the Little Ones
- Live Musical Performances
- Live Dance Performances
- And more!
Check out the Musette Party in the FIAF Skyroom, where Chloé Perrier & the French Heart Jazz will delight your senses. Sample macarons and sip premier champagnes with the spirit of Edith Piaf. Or you could take a wine tour just as if you were sampling the French countryside, over at the Tinker Auditorium. And when you’re done dining on delectable cheeses, finish your day at the Main Stage, where you can watch a variety of live performances, including the French musical Notre Dame de Paris, before it debuts at Lincoln Center.
You don’t need to be French to explore and enjoy all the fabulous Bastille Day celebrations. Check your calendar for festivities between the 10th and the 14th. But you’ll certainly feel like you’re in France with all the bustling activities and cultural experiences that await all around New York City.
For more information about the latest festivals and activities to explore in New York City, follow The Event Planner Expo blog series. And while you’re exploring there, be sure to get your tickets to the Expo in October. It’s going to be incredible! Contact us for remaining exhibitor space and sponsorship opportunities, as well!
