Melbourne is set to come alive with the vibrant colours and flavours of France as the Bastille Day French Festival returns to Queen Victoria Market this weekend. This annual event, celebrating France’s national day, promises a weekend filled with French cuisine, entertainment, and cultural experiences, all while building excitement for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
French Winter Market
The festival’s centrepiece is the French Winter Market, featuring a diverse array of vendors offering authentic French products and experiences. From gourmet food stalls like L’artisan Gourmet Food and Long Paddock Cheese to cultural institutions such as Alliance Française de Melbourne, visitors can immerse themselves in all things French. The market will be open from 9 am to 4 pm on both Saturday and Sunday, providing ample opportunity to explore and indulge.
Performances for all tastes
Entertainment is at the heart of the festival, with a packed schedule of performances across both days. The Main Stage will host a variety of musical acts, including Noria and the Parisians (read our interview with Noria here), Mystique, and Louise Blackwell and the French Set (read our review of one of their past shows here). Roaming performers like Mimo The Mime and Philippe L’Accordioniste will add to the festive atmosphere, while energetic Cancan dancers are sure to captivate audiences throughout the market.
A family-friendly French Festival
For families, the French Circus School offers a unique experience with age-specific sessions ranging from toddlers to adults. These circus workshops provide a fun and interactive way for children and adults alike to engage with French culture and develop new skills.
The cultural program
The festival’s cultural program includes free talks, conferences and cultural events, aptly named “Les Lumières”. It is divided into three themes: Bleu, Blanc, and Rouge, echoing the colours of the French flag. You can expect thought-provoking discussions on French culture and history.
The cultural program also offers a rich variety of experiences, including walking tours exploring French icons of Melbourne, masterclasses in fashion, fragrance, beauty and culinary arts of cheese and wine pairing, and a Tour de France of spirits. Plus, with the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games on the horizon, several Olympic-themed events. A special presentation on the history of women in sport, complete with a fencing demonstration, will take place on July 13 at Le Méridien Melbourne.
For younger attendees, the Hellenic Museum is hosting “Let the Games Begin! Olympics at the Museum” on July 14. This interactive workshop allows children to learn about ancient and modern Olympics and participate in reimagined ancient Pentathlon contests.
Food, wine and spirits masterclasses
Food and wine enthusiasts will find plenty to savour at the festival. Masterclasses in cheese and wine pairing, featuring experts from Long Paddock Cheese and Mosaïque Wines, offer a taste of French gastronomic excellence. For those interested in spirits, a “Tour de France of Spirits” masterclass on July 14 provides a journey through six distinct French spirits. If you’re not wanting to take a masterclass, but just eat French food and drink French wine, there is also plenty of that on offer.
The festival continues after Bastille Day
The festival extends beyond the weekend, with additional events scheduled throughout the week. Notably, on July 16, ACMI Swinburne Studio will host an immersive GreenTech pitch contest, showcasing innovative startups from both France and Australia.
Bastille Day French Festival 2024 is not just a celebration of French national pride; it’s a cultural bridge connecting Melbourne to France, and a preview of the excitement to come with the Paris Olympics. With its blend of traditional Bastille Day festivities and forward-looking Olympic themes, the festival offers something for everyone – from Francophiles and foodies to sports enthusiasts and families.
As Melbourne dons the colours of bleu, blanc, and rouge, visitors to Queen Victoria Market will have the opportunity to experience the essence of France right in the heart of the city. Whether savouring a croissant, enjoying French music, or learning about Olympic history, attendees are sure to come away with a deeper appreciation for French culture and a heightened anticipation for the global celebration of sport that Paris will host in the months to come.
Have you been to Bastille Day French Festival before or will you be going this year?
KEY INFO FOR BASTILLE DAY FRENCH FESTIVAL 2024
WHAT: Bastille Day French Festival 2024
WHERE: Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne (Some events take place at other locations such as Le Méridien Melbourne, Hellenic Museum, and ACMI Swinburne Studio)
WHEN: 9am – 4pm both Saturday 13 July and Sunday 14 July
Plus an additional event on 16 July at ACMI Swinburne Studio
HOW: There is no need to register to attend the festival itself. Just go to Queen Victoria Market and enjoy!
To participate in walking tours, masterclasses, and workshops, you will need to book and can do so via this link.
HOW MUCH: Entry to the Bastille Day French Festival is free!
Prices apply for walking tours, masterclasses, and some workshops. For specific pricing and to purchase your tickets, go here
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For more Bastille Day celebrations in Australia, check out our huge Bastille Day article
To fill the rest of your month with all things French and Francophone, check out our What’s on in July
