Bastille Day In NYC: Francophiles Flock To UES Next Weekend

UPPER EAST SIDE, NY — For more than 20 years the French Institute Alliance Française (FIAF), a nonprofit promoting French language and culture in New York City, has hosted an annual party on East 60th Street to mark the celebration of Bastille Day. This year, the party will be held on Sunday, July 14.

For those who don't know what Bastille Day is: Think of it like the French July 4. It's a celebration of the July 14, 1789 storming of the Bastille — a Medieval fortress in Paris — that marked the beginning of the French Revolution.

"Abounding with French cuisine, musique, dance, and myriad attractions for the whole family, this three-block fête populaire invites New Yorkers to revel in the flavors, sounds, and joie de vivre of France," the French Institute Alliance Française's website reads.

Some highlights of this year's festival include a champaign and jazz party, a lottery with prizes such as a trip to France, a pop-up French market and live performances.

Here's everything you need to know about attending this year's Bastille Day celebration on the Upper East Side:

When it starts:

The FIAF Bastille Day celebration will kick off at noon Sunday and run until 5 p.m., according to event organizers.

Where it's located/how to get there:

The Bastille Day party is held annual on East 60th Street on the Upper East Side. This year's programs take place along the block between Fifth and Lexington Avenues.

The area is east to get to by subway. Take the 4/5/6 or N/R/W lines to Lexington Avenue and 59th Street and it's just one block away.

Street closures:

The stretch of East 60th Street from Fifth Avenue to Lexington Avenue will be closed to cars from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday. Police may decide to close some other roads in the area.

Programs:

Programs at FIAF's Bastille Day celebration highlight all the best parts about France and French culture including cheese, wine, champagne and baked goods.

Check out the full schedule here.