Melbourne and Sydney may have already toasted Bastille Day, but now it is Brisbane’s turn to embrace the joie de vivre of Le Festival 2026, running from Friday 24 to Sunday 26 July. Set against the leafy surrounds of Roma Street Parkland, this much-loved celebration of French culture promises a vibrant weekend of food, wine, music, and artistic discovery. With an extensive program spanning live performances, market stalls, and culinary experiences, there is plenty to explore – so much so that we are breaking it down across several articles. Here, we turn our attention to one of the festival’s highlights: the masterclasses, offering hands-on and immersive experiences for every interest and taste.
From refined tastings to creative workshops and chef-led demonstrations, this year’s masterclass program invites festivalgoers to deepen their appreciation of French gastronomy, wine, and artistry in an intimate and engaging setting.
Friday 24 July
6:30pm Spirits & Cheese – A journey through France’s finest flavours by Marie Pottier
- A 1-hour guided tasting experience with spirits expert Marie Pottier
- Tasting of 7 premium French spirits and liqueurs
- 6 paired artisanal French cheeses
- Accompanied by fresh baguette and gourmet nibbles.
Saturday 25 July
11am The Art of Champagne with The Bubble Diva – Amanda Reboul
- 1-hour Champagne education session with Amanda Reboul
- Taste 5 exquisite Champagnes from the prestigious Taittinger House
- Artisan baguette
- Complimentary chocolate and macarons to take home
12:45pm Create your own Beef Wellington with Chef Clément Chauvin from Montrachet Restaurant
- 1-hour hands-on masterclass with Chef Clément Chauvin
- Learn to prepare your own Beef Wellington
- Relish your own Boeuf en Croûte
- Enjoy 1 glass of French white wine
6:15pm Paint and Sip with Yasmin Bergamini and Marcel Desbiens
- 2-hour creative session on watercolour techniques with French Art Director Marcel Desbiens
- Create your own framed artwork to take home
- 2 drinks (French wine or non-alcoholic options)
- Selection of charcuterie, cheese, and nibbles
- Suitable for all levels – no experience required!
Sunday 26 July
11am The Art of Champagne Masterclass with The Bubble Diva – Amanda Reboul
- 1-hour Champagne education session with Amanda Reboul
- Taste 5 exquisite Champagnes from the prestigious Taittinger House
- Artisan baguette
- Complimentary chocolate and macarons to take home
12:45pm Smoked Weiss Chocolate Soufflé Masterclass with Chef Andy Ashby – C’est Bon Restaurant
- Join Chef Andy Ashby and Chef Jordy Lee to learn how to prepare a Smoked Weiss Chocolate Soufflé with Artichoke Ice-Cream.
- A carefully selected dessert wine
- a tasting of Weiss Chocolate,
- a recipe card to take home.
As Le Festival 2026 returns to Brisbane, its masterclasses stand out as a unique way to go beyond tasting and truly engage with French culture. Whether you are sipping Champagne with an expert, mastering a classic dish, or exploring your creative side, these sessions offer memorable, hands-on experiences led by passionate specialists. With limited spots available, they are also among the most sought-after events of the weekend, making them well worth planning ahead for as part of your festival itinerary.
KEY INFO FOR LE FESTIVAL 2026
WHAT: Le Festival 2026
WHERE: Roma Street Parkland, BRISBANE
The Saturday Afterparty is at Prohibition Brisbane
WHEN: Friday 24 to Sunday 26 July
Friday 24 July: 4pm to 10pm
Saturday 25 July : 8am – 10pm
Sunday 26 July : 8am – 5pm
HOW: Purchase tickets for admission, masterclasses. the raffle and the Saturday afterparty here
HOW MUCH:
Entry tickets
Full priced adult tickets are priced as follows:
- Friday $12,
- Saturday $18,
- Sunday $18
- 3 day pass $30
There are concession discounts, and the companion card is accepted allowing free entry for the companion.
Children’s tickets
Tickets for children aged 13-17 cost $6 for Friday night admission, $8 for Saturday, $8 for Sunday, and $16 for the three-day pass.
Children 12 & under enter for free when accompanied by a responsible adult.
Masterclasses
The price for Le Festival 2026 masterclasses depend on the masterclass chosen. They include entry to the festival.
