London’s largest free Bastille Festival
France’s national holiday, Bastille Day 2014 is fast approaching and as the French get geared up to celebrate, the Brits are taking the party into their own hands by celebrating a day early on 13th July in Bankside and Borough Market. As part of the Bankside Summer of Culture, the free Bastille Festival will be a fantastic day for families, groups of friends and of course Francophiles with various events taking place throughout the day to appeal to all – it’s a French extravaganza!
Bastille Festival poster
For the family – Magicians, street performers, a traditional game of French boules with a pétanque court set up outside La Cave, what more could the kids want? Ohh how about a guillotine to mark the true spirit of the French revolution, or to punish those who aren’t behaving…mwahaha!
For the foodies – If there is one thing the French are renowned for world-wide it’s their cuisine! Frogs legs and snails…actually some may be glad to know that Borough Market have side stepped these delicacies and instead have opted for a banquet of French cheese, bread, pastries and crepes. There will also be a French cookery demonstration at Market Hall and the bakers from Bread Ahead are running a French bread making class. Various restaurants in Bankside such as La Cave will have special French menus for the day.
For the shoppers – Once the cooking master classes are complete, talk a walk around Borough Market to see if any of the French produce for sale sparks some culinary ideas.
For the film fanatics – Tired after all that food and shopping? Take a break for an al fresco screening of the critically acclaimed family animation Belleville Rendez-Vous at 1pm at The Refinery.
For the ‘thirsty’ – Whether blanc or rouge there’s no denying that French wine is among the best in the world. To mark this accolade Laithwaites will be hosting French wine tastings through the day and because it’s nearly impossible to have wine without cheese, Vinopolis will be holding a masterclass on; you’ve guessed it; French cheese and wine!
Better Bankside, Bastille Day Festival
For the music lovers – The entire day will feature live music to dance and sing along to, French style. To keep the party going, Bal Populaire is hosting a traditional open air party. Vive la France!
For the footy lovers – Don’t forget that the 13th July marks the final match of the World Cup 2014. The Refinery is screening the final on an outside screen, starting at 8pm. Lie back on the deck chairs, relax with one of The Refinery’s très chic cocktails and enjoy watching the big game, even if it won’t be England vs France.
Vive la France!
What: Bastille Festival 2014
Where: Bankside and Borough Market
When: 13 June, (12 noon – 10pm)
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You may also want to check the Vauxhall Village Summer Screen.
