Between the 250th anniversary of Independence Day, the World Cup, and Bastille Day, Boston is buzzing this summer. Many events are planned to celebrate la Fête Nationale. In fact, if the French team were to qualify for the semifinals, Les Bleus would play on July 14, making the celebration even more special! Until then, here’s a selection of venues where the tricolor festivities are set to take place.
July 11
Le Petit Robert
On Saturday, July 11, Le Petit Bistrot is offering a special Bastille Day menu with Provençal summer classics, such as gougères, panisses, or zucchini flower fritters as appetizers, and main courses like roasted Camembert, hachis Parmentier, or Marseille-style bouillabaisse. Not to mention financiers, cannelés, and other treats to round out the meal. We recommend making a reservation in advance to secure a table for dinner.
Le Petit Robert 480 Columbus Ave. Reservations.
Batifol
In Cambridge, Batifol will offer a brunch buffet from 10 am to 3 pm for $55 per person. French songs and surprises are planned throughout the day. The event is open to all.
Batifol 291 Third Street, Cambridge. Reservations.
July 12
French Library
As they do every year, the French Library (Alliance Française de Boston) is hosting a Bastille Day celebration. The event will begin at 5 pm with a swing dance class led by instructors from Boston Lindy Hop, where participants can discover the rhythm of the musette. At the same time, children can participate in a craft workshop from 5 pm to 6 pm. Games in the spirit of the World Cup will also be available in the library (foosball, coloring, quizzes, trivia, etc.), and there will be prizes to win. From 6 pm to 8 pm, the band Musette Suzette will provide entertainment. Then DJ Brian Keigher will take over until the end of the event. Participants are encouraged to wear their finest French attire. Tickets are available on the French Library’s website.
French Library 53 Marlborough Street, Boston. Reservations.
July 14
Beehive
For one evening, the Beehive will transform itself into a Parisian cabaret. The program features a concert by singer Angela Rossi paying tribute to French pop music. Afterward, the spirit of the Moulin Rouge will take over the stage with burlesque artists Nikki Bellanova and Lopez La Lopez. The menu will include French-inspired dishes, rosé, and champagne. Reservations are strongly encouraged.
Beehive 541 Tremont Street. Reservations.
This article was originally published in French on French Morning. It appears here in translation.
