If you haven’t gotten your fill of red, white, and blue this summer, don’t miss the chance to wave French flags on Tuesday, July 14 during Washington’s many Bastille Day celebrations. You don’t need to know French to party—just say oui to free Champagne and baguette races, special menus, and festive soirées.
Art Soiree at Sofitel DC
806 15th St., NW
Don your most festive French attire for a night of dancing, free Champagne, and plenty of photo ops at the Sofitel DC. Live gypsy jazz music by Bitter Dose Combo will have guests up on their feet, fueled by macarons and cake dolled out by a Marie Antoinette impersonator. Tickets are $20 online and $30 at the door.
When: Tuesday, July 14; 7 to 11 Bistro Du Coin
1738 Connecticut Ave., NW
Commemorate La Fête Nationale with dinner and entertainment at this classic Dupont bistro. Known for its parties celebrating France’s three biggest holidays, Bistro Du Coin does Bastille day right with traditional French fare, music by DJ Ash, and a lively atmosphere. Reservations required for the sit-down dinner.
When: Tuesday, July 14; two dinner seatings at 7 and 9 Bistrot Lepic and Wine Bar
1736 Wisconsin Ave., NW
Chef George Vetsch has put together a Bastille Day-inspired menu filled with French classics, both familiar (vermouth-steamed mussels) and more exotic (veal kidneys in mustard sauce). Guests pick from a selection of appetizers, entrees, and desserts ($39 per person).
When: Sunday July 5 to Tuesday July 14; normal business hours Central Michel Richard
1001 Pennsylvania Ave., NW
Satisfy your cravings for escargot, ratatouille, and—most importantly—lots of wine at chef Michel Richard’s Franco-American bistro. The restaurant will serve up a special menu, complimentary savory cheese pastries, and patriotic libations.
When: Tuesday, July 14; 5 to 10:30 Et Voila!
5120 Macarthur Blvd., NW
Worked up an appetite from a long day of festivities? Head to this Palisades restaurant for a French feast at dinner time, with your choice of a three-course special holiday menu ($40 per person), or regular à la carte options.
When: Tuesday, July 14; 5 to 10 Le Diplomate
1601 14th St., NW
One of 14th Street’s most popular restaurants will hold a grand celebration, complete with mime performances, a pétanque court (French bocce ball), and, of course, food and drink specials. Executive chef Michael Abt will also offer lesser-known French dishes, such as pike fish quenelles with crayfish sauce.
When: Tuesday, July 14; normal business hours L’Enfant Cafe
2000 18th St., NW
Missed L’Enfant Cafe’s Grand Bastille Day bash in NoMa this weekend? The fun will continue at the annual party’s original site—the Adams Morgan cafe and bar—on Tuesday with special plates, drinks, and a DJ to keep the fête going. Reservations are recommended.
When: Tuesday July, 14; normal business hours Le Grenier
502 H St., NE
The family-owned French restaurant offers free Kronenbourg beer and tasty baguettes to celebrate the holiday. Stop by around dinner for freebies, or stay into the night for live music by Kevin McWha Steele, a bilingual singer-songwriter.
When: Tuesday, July 14; 5 to 11 PAUL Bakery and Café
801 Pennsylvania Ave., NW
Run for your bread during PAUL’s 5th annual baguette relay race, where teams will race around the US Navy Memorial in pursuit of a coveted prize—a free lunch from the café. Spectators and cheerleaders are welcome as well.
When: Tuesday, July 14; kids race at 11, adults at 11:30
