You don’t have to be a certified Francophile to join in on the Bastille Day fun. This French national holiday marks the fall of the Bastille on July 14, 1789. This violent uprising is also known as the first act of the French Revolution. In France, Bastille Day on July 14 is often honored with parades, dancing, and fireworks. With food, wine, and activities galore, these Bastille Day celebrations in NoVA will make you sing “Vive la France!”
Bastille Brasserie & Bar
Through Saturday, July 15
Staying true to its name, Bastille Brasserie & Bar is offering a fine dining experience to celebrate Bastille Day. The restaurant is offering a three-course, prix fixe dinner, including a selection of salads, main courses, and fresh desserts. 606 N. Fayette St., Alexandria, $55
Mon Ami Gabi
July 13–19
For nearly a week, Reston’s Mon Ami Gabi will have a Bastille Day menu. Toast to France with this three-course dinner that includes an heirloom tomato salad, seafood bouillabaisse, and a trio of sorbet and ice cream. 11950 Democracy Dr., Reston
Bastille Day in Fredericksburg
Friday, July 14, 5 p.m.
Spend a festive, French-themed evening in downtown Fredericksburg’s Hurkamp Park. This Bastille Day celebration has live music, including the singing of “La Marseillaise,” the French national anthem. Shop around the marché au puces, or flea market, and indulge in classic French food and wine. And, make sure to enter the Fredericksburg Sister City Association’s $20 raffle for the chance to win a stay at The Jefferson Hotel in Richmond. Prince Edward and George streets, Fredericksburg, free
L’Auberge Chez François
Friday, July 14, 6 p.m.–8 p.m.
L’Auberge Chez François’s six-course Bastille Day Wine Dinner is nothing short of elegant. The meal is paired with five different French wines, chosen by Hugues Beaulieu, the former head sommelier at the Inn at Little Washington, who will guide you through the wine pairings. The dinner will be outside on the garden terrace with views of the restaurant’s gardens, koi pond, and flowers. There will also be a singing of the French national anthem by Chef Jacques Haeringer. 332 Springvale Rd., Great Falls, $224 per person, paid online
WHINO
Friday, July 14
Cheers to France’s quest for independence by sampling WHINO’s French wines. On Bastille Day, this Ballston restaurant is serving five rosés with the wine curator explaining their nuances. There will also be exclusive discounts on bottles of wine. Additionally, WHINO offers global eats and charcuterie. 4238 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, $40 per person
CommuniKids Bastille Day Celebration
Saturday, July 15, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly French Quarter, head over to CommuniKids. This free event includes French story times and crafts to help kids learn about the country’s language and culture. There will be moon bounces, face painting, food trucks, and a petting zoo. This event is for children under 8 and registration in advance is required. 115 Hillwood Ave., Falls Church, free
Feature image L’Auberge Chez François (Photo by Rey Lopez)
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