Fete Bastille Day in New York City

It’s time for Bastille Day celebrations in NYC, with such a large community of both Francophiles and expats there are so many events from family-friendly fun to evening cocktails including dancing. Now, how to choose? I’ve selected a few of my favorites located in Manhattan.

Bastille Day on 60th Street

The festivities begin this weekend on Sunday, June 12th at the French Institute Alliance Française (FIAF). Bastille Day on 60^th Street has been a staple on the Upper East side for over 15 years and it’s known as New York’s largest public celebration of Franco-American friendship. Previous years have been wonderful, so I’m thrilled to attend again this year (post-tennis in Central Park- finally a weekend without rain). Let’s be honest, I’m lured by the French cuisine in true gourmand fashion! My mouth is already watering at the thought of a savory crepe of jambon blanc et fromage yet still saving room for dessert! Of course, a Canele by Celine is on the list to indulge guilt-free after a workout. What’s more: a new addition has been added to the list of attractions: a chocolate and champagne tasting alongside the usual wine, cocktails, beer, and cheese tasting. For five hours, the street will be closed to traffic and morph into a fête populaire which includes music, dance (the can can!), and myriad attractions sure to please the whole family.

For more details on booths and entertainment please refer to the website: bastilledayny.com

Brookfield Celebrates Bastille Day

If you’re downtown on Sunday, June 12th: Brookfield Place New York will celebrate Bastille Day with music, games, and family fun. New French eatery and marketplace, Le District, will celebrate French food and culture with a Ricard bar, specialty picnic baskets filled with French goodies, and a roving ice cream cart. Equinox will run a “Tour de France” Spin class on the plaza with stationary bikes. The day-long event will offer activities like Parkour, music, and even caricaturists. Picnic blankets will be set up for people to enjoy the bounty that Le District has to offer while enjoying the waterfront or recalling images of the Seine. This is the first year for Brookfield Bastille Day, and by the look and sound of the website, I’m sure it will be a hit.

For more details on scheduled entertainment please visit the website: http://brookfieldplaceny.com/events/bastille-day-nyc

Bastille Day Ball 2015

The traditional Bastille Day Ball is back (Monday, June 13th), hosted by the New York French Language Association Committee at the 404 Club. Featuring a live cabaret by Chanteuse, Adrien Haan who will cover classic Edith Piaf and Jacques Brel while also covering the eras of the 20s and 30s and some pop-jazz of Patricia Kaas.

After the show, DJ Super Jaime will keep up the rhythm and dancing. All the while revelers enjoy a cash bar and passed hors d’oeuvres included with admission ticket.

Those who purchase VIP tickets have the opportunity to enjoy the private lounge with buffet and open bar until 10pm.

To purchase tickets and find out more details please see website: http://www.bastilledayball.org/2015/

Bastille Day

Le District will celebrate French independence with a tasting tour throughout the massive market space from 5 to 9pm. For $20 per person, guests will be welcomed with a glass of wine to accompany a French food adventure, wandering from station to station including the Boulangerie, Fromagerie, Charcuterie, Rotisserie, Boucherie and Poissonnerie, and enjoying a signature bite from each. Bread, wine, cheese – does it get more French than that?

To purchase tickets on or before the day of the event can be bought at Le District’s Concierge stand.

Valerie O’Halloran is the France Today Ambassador for New York