Belated Bastille Day Celebrations!

Bastille Day, or La Fête Nationale (French National Day), is July 14th and the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille in 1789, along with the beginning of the modern French nation.  Basically, it's a day to PARTY!

Google's tribute to July 14th

Even though yesterday was July 14th, there are still a ton of activities going on in the DC area over the weekend that will fulfill your Bastille Day craving.  Nothing compares to the wild celebration on the Champs-Elysées, but hey, DC's layout was inspired by a French architect (Major Pierre Charles L'Enfant), so it feels like we're in France regardless!

Here are a few of the festivities that are on-going throughout the weekend that will assist you in celebrating au français. 


1.  Mon Ami Gabi restaurant in Bethesda (7239 Woodmont Ave) is raising a glass to their French heritage July 14-20 with a special menu devoted to the traditional Bastille Day foods (chilled creme du berry soup, summer duck confit salad, and pan-seared Arctic char with sweet corn chowder).

2.  My favorite DC estate, Hillwood, is hosting a French Festival event through the weekend in honor of Thursday's Bastille Day.  On Saturday from 10am to 7pm and Sunday 1pm to 5pm, Hillwood will host a gallery featuring the museum’s French collections, traditional French games, and the chance to make miniature French furniture. Also included are performances by Opera Lafayette and the New York Baroque Dance Company.  Tickets range from $5-$18.

Bastille Day celebrations on the Champs-Elysées

3.  The French Embassy (4101 Reservoir Road NW) is hosting a Bastille Day party on Saturday from 7pm-midnight, featuring food hailing from DC-based French chefs, traditional French dance performances, along with French wines and champagne! Tickets are $100, and the proceeds go to Comite Tricolore.

 
Laissez les bons temps rouler!