What is Bastille Day and Why It’s Celebrated
Bastille Day, celebrated annually on July 14, is the national day of France. Known as La Fête Nationale, it marks the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille in 1789, a pivotal moment in the French Revolution. This holiday symbolizes liberty, unity, and the spirit of the French people.
While the heart of the celebration is in France, Bastille Day is honored globally by those who admire French culture. In the United States, especially in areas rich in culture like Northern Virginia, this holiday is celebrated with French food, drinks, music, and lively events.
Whether you’re a Francophile or simply enjoy a good celebration, Bastille Day in Northern Virginia offers a wide range of opportunities to immerse yourself in French traditions.
Why Northern Virginia Loves Celebrating Bastille Day
Northern Virginia, with its close proximity to Washington, D.C., has a deep appreciation for international culture. French influence can be seen in local architecture, cuisine, language schools, and even street names. This multicultural embrace makes the region a perfect place to celebrate Bastille Day.
Communities in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, and Falls Church host a variety of French-inspired events, bringing together residents and tourists alike to toast the spirit of France.
Top Restaurants Hosting Bastille Day Celebrations
If you’re planning to celebrate Bastille Day in Northern Virginia, several top-tier restaurants and cafés are offering themed menus and exclusive events. Here’s where you can go to get a true taste of France on July 14.
1. Bastille Brasserie & Bar – Alexandria, VA
Located in the heart of Alexandria, Bastille Brasserie & Bar is a modern French bistro with a loyal following. Founded by Chefs Christophe and Michelle Poteaux, the restaurant is known for delivering authentic French fare with a modern twist.
Bastille Day Specials:
- Four-course prix fixe menu
- French wine pairings
- Bastille Day cocktails like French 75 and Kir Royale
- Live French music
From escargot to duck confit, the menu reflects the sophistication of Paris dining. The ambience, paired with excellent service, makes it a go-to venue for a memorable Bastille Day dinner.
2. L’Auberge Chez François – Great Falls, VA
This award-winning French restaurant is nestled in the countryside of Great Falls and offers one of the most elegant Bastille Day celebrations in the region. Chef Jacques Haeringer continues his father’s legacy of French excellence.
Highlights Include:
- Multi-course wine dinner
- Outdoor garden seating
- French music with accordion
- House-made French desserts like chocolate soufflé
L’Auberge Chez François is ideal for those who want a refined and romantic evening while honoring French history and culture.
3. Parc de Ville – Fairfax, VA (Mosaic District)
Parc de Ville is a charming rooftop bistro that recreates the feeling of dining in a Paris café. With its Mosaic District location, it’s both trendy and accessible.
Bastille Day Offers:
- Special brunch with croque madame and mimosas
- DJ with French-themed music
- Photo booth with Parisian props
- Rosé specials and macaron giveaways
Families and young professionals love this casual yet stylish venue, especially during Bastille Day weekend.
4. Café Colline – Arlington, VA
Café Colline is a neighborhood gem in Arlington that features classic French comfort food. On Bastille Day, expect to find:
- Steak frites, ratatouille, and French onion soup
- Half-price wine bottles
- Outdoor seating and live French jazz
The bistro’s relaxed atmosphere is perfect for a no-fuss celebration.
Annual Bastille Day Block Party in Old Town Alexandria
Old Town Alexandria hosts one of the most popular Bastille Day events in Northern Virginia—the Bastille Day Block Party.
Event Features:
- Streets closed for pedestrian-only access
- Live performances by French jazz bands and dancers
- Local vendors offering French pastries, cheeses, and crafts
- Wine tastings from French vineyards
- Activities for children including puppet shows and storytelling
This open-air festival is ideal for families and couples looking to explore French culture in a festive, community-centered way.
More Topic
Brigitte Macron: Meet the Wife of French President Emmanuel Macron
Lindsay Lohan Reveals the Movie She’s Most Excited to Show Her Son
Superman Cast 2025: Meet the Star-Studded Heroes in James Gunn’s DC Universe
Boil Water Notice Lifted in Canyon Lake: What Residents Need to Know
Bakeries and Cafés Offering Bastille Day Treats
Even if you’re not dining out, you can still celebrate with delicious Bastille Day pastries from local French bakeries.
Top Picks Include:
- Fresh Baguette (Bethesda and VA locations): croissants, eclairs, pain au chocolat
- Paul (Tysons): fruit tarts, macarons, mille-feuille
- Maison Cheryl (Arlington): French toast, quiche, baguette sandwiches
Make your Bastille Day breakfast extra special by picking up a selection of these freshly baked treats.
Drink Like the French: Bastille Day Cocktails & Wine
A big part of the celebration revolves around beverages—specifically French wine and cocktails. Many restaurants and bars across Northern Virginia offer themed drink specials on Bastille Day.
French Drinks to Try:
- Kir Royale – Champagne with crème de cassis
- Pastis – A traditional aperitif from Provence
- French 75 – Gin, lemon, and champagne
- Côtes du Rhône and Bordeaux Wines – Classic French reds and whites
Several venues even offer French wine flights and Bastille Day happy hours, making it easier to toast to liberté.
Family-Friendly Bastille Day Events
Looking for a way to celebrate with kids? Several cultural centers and libraries offer Bastille Day events for children and families.
Activities Include:
- Storytime in French (Alexandria Library)
- Kids’ art classes with themes like Eiffel Tower or Tricolor painting
- Outdoor picnic concerts with space for kids to play
- French film screenings for all ages
These activities offer a fun way to introduce children to French history and culture while enjoying the summer weather.
French Style: What to Wear on Bastille Day
When celebrating Bastille Day in Northern Virginia, many attendees like to dress in theme.
Popular Outfit Choices:
- Colors: Blue, white, and red (French flag)
- Accessories: Berets, striped shirts, neck scarves
- Footwear: Chic flats, espadrilles, or sandals
Many restaurants even reward guests who come in costume with free drinks or discounts. Don’t be afraid to go full-on French!
Tips for a Perfect Bastille Day in Northern Virginia
- Reserve Early: Book your restaurant or event tickets ahead of time, as spots fill quickly.
- Arrive Early: Events like block parties and wine tastings can get crowded.
- Try Something New: Don’t hesitate to try new dishes like escargot or duck liver pâté.
- Bring Cash: Some smaller vendors at street events may not accept cards.
- Use Rideshare: Parking in busy areas like Old Town can be difficult during peak hours.
Celebrate at Home: Host Your Own Bastille Day Party
Can’t make it out? Create your own celebration at home! Hosting a Bastille Day dinner party is easy with the right ingredients and ambiance.
Steps to Host at Home:
- Decorate with mini French flags, candles, and wine glasses.
- Prepare a French menu: baguettes, cheese board, beef bourguignon, and macarons.
- Play French café music or classic Edith Piaf songs.
- Stream a French movie like Amélie or La Vie en Rose.
Whether big or small, a personal celebration is a meaningful way to enjoy Bastille Day.
Join the Celebration and Say Vive La France!
Northern Virginia offers countless ways to enjoy Bastille Day, from fine dining to festive street parties. With French music, gourmet cuisine, flavorful wines, and engaging events for all ages, this July 14 can be your most memorable one yet.
Whether you’re dining in elegance at L’Auberge Chez François or sipping wine under the stars at the Old Town Block Party, the spirit of France is alive and thriving in the DMV.
So wear your red, white, and blue, grab a croissant, and raise a glass to liberty and culture. Bastille Day in Northern Virginia is a celebration not to be missed.
