Sunday, July 14, marks Bastille Day, the French holiday that commemorates the 1789 storming of the Bastille and the beginnings of the French revolution. In honor of the day, also known as Fête Nationale, French bistros and cafés will offer special meals and events that provide a little taste of France right in NoVA.
Bastille Brasserie & Bar
July 12–20
Take part in French Restaurant Week through July 20. It’s a $55 prix fixe, where diners can choose hors d’oeuvres, an entrée, and a dessert, with options including dishes like steak frites and escargot. 606 N. Fayette St., Alexandria
Fredericksburg Sister City Association
July 14, 5–8 p.m.
The Fredericksburg Sister City Association hosts its annual Bastille Day festival in Hurkamp Park. Expect to find a French-style flea market, plus food, wine, and beverages for sale. Come in costume or in red, white, and blue attire to the free event. Hurkamp Park: 500 William St., Fredericksburg
Josephine
July 12–14, July 17
Old Town’s French bistro has a weekend of Bastille Day fun planned, including food and drink specials starting Friday. On Saturday, festivities include face painting, balloon twisting, a violinist, and a merguez sausage cart. For oenophiles, Josephine will host a wine class to focus on Vin de France wines on July 17. 109 S. St. Asaph St., Alexandria
La Côte D’Or Café
July 12–14
This weekend, the cafe offers a three-course menu of elegant French cuisine, available à la carte. Entrée choices include dishes like boeuf Bourguignon and sea scallops Provençale. Enjoy live music from Jackson Caesar on July 12 and Justin Paschalides on July 13 and 14. 6876 Langston Blvd., Arlington
L’Auberge Chez François
July 14, 11 a.m.
This Great Falls restaurant, named the best French restaurant in our Best of NoVA reader poll, is pulling out all the stops for Bastille Day. For an early celebration, head to the musical brunch experience on the covered garden terrace, with music from John Giunta, a three-course meal, and drinks. 332 Springvale Rd., Great Falls
Lost Boy Cider
July 12, 6–9 p.m.
Enjoy a special French-themed cider and club jazz from DC Ambiance at this Bastille Day celebration. And what goes well with French cider? French macarons. Lulu Macarons will be on site to satisfy your sweet tooth. 317 Hooffs Run Dr., Alexandria
Whino
July 12, 8 p.m.
The wine experts at Whino will lead guests through a tasting of five French wines. You’ll get to try five 2-ounce pours of rosé, plus receive a discount on any bottles you decide to purchase. 4238 Wilson Blvd., Arlington
Feature image of L’Auberge Chez François by Rey Lopez
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