New Orleans is the place to be for all things French. With top French restaurants and a historic French Market, New Orleans is a celebration of French culture in America. It's even in the name: the city was originally named La Nouvelle Orleans in honor of the French Duke of Orleans.
As a city rich in French history and culture, of course there's much to do in New Orleans on Bastille Day. This July 14 holiday originally recognizes the 1789 Storming of the Bastille, a French fortress and prison. Now, Bastille Day is celebrated in English-speaking countries annually to revel in the crème-de-la-crème of French culture.
5 Best Ways to Celebrate Bastille Day
1. Le Jour de Gloire: A Bastille Day Fête at Bar Marilou
Bastille Day is best celebrated at Bar Marilou, a French-style cocktail bar located near Maison de la Luz at 544 Carondelet St. Starting on July 14 at 4 p.m., enjoy a special one-day French menu and handcrafted cocktails. Tangier's Combo will begin the live music set at 6:30 p.m., and DJ Maddie will close out the night from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. Festivities officially end at 1 a.m. on July 15.
Secure your spot at this night of exquisite French dining and fun with a Bar Marilou reservation.
2. Alliance Francais' Bastille Day Fête
Experience the best of New Orleans French festivities on July 14 at Bastille Day Fête, which features delicious food and drinks, local live music, a French DJ, and activities for all ages to enjoy. Channel your favorite French character and compete in the costume contest for a 50 percent off drink ticket, or bring home something special from the silent auction. Take the kids to the Petite Bastille Day section of the festival, which will have many games and activities for kids.
Bastille Day Fête will take place rain or shine at 1519 Jackson Ave. from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. Online tickets are $5 for Alliance Française de La Nouvelle-Orléans members and $10 for non-members. Tickets purchased at the door are $15.
3. Couvant Bar and Brasserie's Bastille Day Event
Head to the CBD for the finest French foods at Couvant Bar and Brasserie on July 14 at 317 Magazine St. Kick off the night at 6 p.m. with chilled rosé pr champagne and hors d'oeuvres. Following the small bites and sips will be a three-course French dinner curated by Executive Chef Ryan Pearson, complemented by paired wines.
French entertainment will elevate the celebration throughout the evening. Each $75 ticket will cover the provided food and drinks as well as tax and gratuities. Tickets are available here.
4. Bastille Day Celebration at Michalopoulos Gallery
Appreciate the arts this Bastille Day by celebrating at Michalopoulos Gallery at 617 Bienville St. From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on July 14, explore the gallery, enjoy some light bites from Celtica Bakery, and celebrate French heritage.
Sam Craft from Sweet Crude, a local indie-pop band that sings in both English and Louisiana French, will provide the music for the evening. If you get there on time, you might even get to take home a signed Jazz Fest poster before they run out.
5. Faubourg St. John Merchants Bastille Block Party
Still want more French fun after July 14? Attend the 16th Annual St. John Merchants Bastille Block Party, which will be hitting 3100 Ponce de Leon St. on July 15 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. This Block Party is stacked with events for all ages, from an Art's market lining the street to Les ReBelle NOLA Cancan Dancers kicklining the night away.
Other activities include two live bands, a costume contest, kids' activities, and crafts. Enjoy tasty French bites and drinks from Cafe Degas, Sante Fe, The Post, Pal's Lounge, Swirl Wine, and more. RSVP on the event's Facebook page.
Bastille Day the New Orleans Way
These five events will have you booked and busy on Bastille Day. Celebrate the French national holiday in a city known for its festivities and French influence. This Bastille Day, there's many ways to "laissez les bons temps rouler."
