Bastille Day Celebrations

This Sunday, say “bonjour!” to the French in you as Bastille Day New York commences! Commemorating the victories of the French Revolution and France’s own Independence Day on July 15, this three-block fête on 60th Street brings French culture in all its forms to the heart of the city.There’s a fantastic range of activities for all ages and the chance to win in an envy-inducing week long trip to Paris and Beaujolais – not that New Yorkers need to go to France to enjoy the wonders of its culture! With French games for the kids, face painting, and – of course – delicious French treats on offer to all, this annual event is free and open to the public.  Street entertainment will include classic French mimes, chansons - or accordion – music wafting through the streets, and a display of classic Citröens.The main stage on the corner of 60th Street and Park Avenue will be hosting entertainment from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. , including two performances of the Cancan that are sure to pull a crowd!  The French Institute Alliance Française (FIAF) on 22 East 60th Street is hosting French wine, cheese and cocktail sampling, all for a $20 all-inclusive entrance fee. There’s also complimentary 30-minute French language workshops from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. (three classes per hour) for those of you who need to brush up on your French.Bastille Day NYC is the largest public celebration of U.S.-French friendship in the country, and it brings French-themed shops and stalls from various regions of France right into the city – as well as participants from Belgium, Switzerland, Quebec, and the rest of the francophone world. You can find all the information (along with directions) on their website. Look forward to seeing you there – and vive la France!