July 4 may be over, but Bastille Day is just around the corner! Similar to America’s Independence Day, Bastille Day – July 14 – celebrates France’s national holiday, complete with fireworks, parties, and red, white, and blue decor. Although the most notable Bastille Day celebrations are in Paris, there’s no need to take a trip across the pond to enjoy the festivities. Check out these four Bastille Day events held in cities around the US:
New Orleans, LA – Possibly the largest Bastille Day celebration outside of France, New Orleans – with its French roots – boasts a huge, free public festival that includes live music, dancing, and lots of tasty French/Cajun food.
Chicago, IL – If you’re in the Windy City on July 14, stop by Daley Plaza for the famous Bastille Day “Waiter’s Race”, where waiters from all over the city race while balancing a serving tray, without spilling a drop of Grand Cru.
Philadelphia, PA – Prior to the Bastille Day block party, Philly features French revolutionaries, armed with muskets and cannon, and singing “La Marseillaise,” storming the grim walls of “the Bastille” and dragging Marie Antoinette to a real, functioning guillotine – all at the Eastern State Penitentiary.
Milwaukee, WI – Milwaukee has more than just brews – stop by this weekend for the annual Bastille Day lineup which includes wine and whiskey tasting, live music, can-can dancers, belly dancing, and more.
