Bastille Day 2024 in New York

What an amazing event for all the francophiles—celebrating France’s Independence Day

Dates: July 14, 2024

Bastille Day, known as French National Day, marks the anniversary of the Storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, a pivotal event in the French Revolution. This annual celebration is a symbol of freedom and the enduring friendship between France and the United States. In 2024, Bastille Day promises a rich array of activities and events across NYC, providing an opportunity for people to immerse themselves in French culture and history.

Activities

Celebrations usually fall on Sunday, either before or after July 14. According to the organizers, there will be various festivities throughout New York City during Bastille Week. These events include film screenings, cheese and wine tastings, and themed parties, offering diverse ways to celebrate and engage with French traditions.

FIAF’s Bastille Day 2024 Celebration

The French Institute Alliance Française (FIAF) hosts New York City's largest Bastille Day celebration from 12 pm to 5 pm on Madison Avenue, stretching from 59th to 63rd Street. This event features a vibrant street fair, French cuisine, live music, dance performances, and activities for all ages. Attendees can immerse themselves in French culture with cancan dance performances, a Champagne Party, and two film screenings. The celebration will also include more than 50 booths from French and local vendors, offering a diverse range of products and experiences.

Consulate General of France in New York Bastille Day 2024 Celebration

From 5 pm to 10 pm, Bastille Day celebrations in New York City will feature an exceptional French music festival at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park (entrance at 72nd Street on 5th Avenue). Organized by the Consulate General of France in New York, this free event will showcase a diverse lineup of French and French-speaking artists. Attendees can enjoy performances from the iconic rap group IAM, the Ivorian quartet Magic System, electronic deep house maestro The Avener, French pop singer-songwriter Laurie Darmon, and Beninese artist Femi the Scorpion. Last year's event attracted over 6,000 spectators, and this year's festival promises to deliver an unforgettable evening of music and dance in a festive summer atmosphere.

Tickets and Parking

As the organizers state, the main events are free and open to the public. However, some other events during Bastille Week may require tickets, which can be purchased in advance through the respective event websites. Parking in New York City can be challenging, so it is recommended to use public transportation. Nearby subway stations include the 59th Street-Lexington Avenue station (serving the 4, 5, 6, N, R, and W trains) and the 5th Avenue-59th Street station (serving the N, R, and W trains).

History

Bastille Day commemorates the Storming of the Bastille, which occurred on July 14, 1789. This event marked the beginning of the French Revolution, leading to the overthrow of the monarchy and the establishment of the French Republic. Over the years, Bastille Day has evolved into a celebration of French culture and heritage. In New York City, the French Institute Alliance Française has been organizing Bastille Day celebrations for decades, fostering a sense of community and cultural exchange between France and the United States.