Bring in Bastille Day the French way.
Also known as la Fête Nationale in France, Bastille Day commemorates the storming of the Bastille Prison in 1789 as well as honors a major turning point in the French Revolution. Whether it be a wine-filled noir to remember or a picnic the entire family can enjoy, these District events will have you covered for this year’s July 14th celebration.
Celebrating Alsace
Embassy of France
4101 Reservoir Road Northwest
Journey to one of the most iconic regions in France while staying close to home on Friday, July 13. The Hot Club of Baltimore will provide you with the sounds of France as you sip on exquisite wines and dine on french food from the best local chefs. Come dressed in Alsatian colors – red and white, and prepare for a silent auction filled with wonderful items. Tickets start at $115, VIP tickets are also available for purchase. Click here for tickets.
A Bastille Day Picnic
Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square
806 15th Street Northwest
Come celebrate Bastille Day with a French-themed picnic by Opaline Bar and Brasserie. There will be everything from Tricolore snowcones to specially priced champagne and rosé all held at the famously french Sofitel hotel. Space is limited so make sure to reserve tickets to this free event before attending.
Hillwood French Festival
4155 Linnean Avenue
The Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens is putting together a full day of Bastille Day fun. Enjoy a play by Happenstance Theater, the best of baroque dance by the New York Baroque Dance Company, music from Kevin Shannon that will transport you back to France in the 1700s and more! Rain or shine, Hillwood’s breathtaking gardens will be open for all to explore. Tickets are available for purchase online. For military pricing, call 202.686.5807.
Bastille Noir at Le Diplomate
1601 14th St NW, Washington
An evening with some “je ne sais quoi and a little naughtiness” will be held at none other than Le Diplomate on July 14. There will be DJ led entertainment starting at 9:30 pm, as well as drag queen performances at 10 p.m. Expect a special menu filled with delicious food and drinks, as well as a sketch artist creating caricatures of the Bastille Day madness late into the night. Le Diplomate will also be open for families to have in on the fun all afternoon until 5 p.m. before Bastille Noir begins. Click here to tickets.
