Bastille Day French Fest Brings a Taste of France to Cherry Creek

The French only refer to it as Bastille Day when talking with English-speakers: At home, the holiday is 'le Quatorze Juillet' or 'la Fête nationale.' "It's our 4th of July," says Victor Ducoulombier, president of the French American Chamber of Commerce Rocky Mountain Chapter. "Our Independence Day, our national holiday. And we're happy to share our culture here."

The summer holiday celebrates the storming of the prison at Bastille on July 14, 1789. The pivotal starting point for the French Revolution, the fall of the fortress was the beginning of the end for King Louis XVI's absolute monarchy, paving the way for France's modern democracy.

Much like the Fourth of July, Bastille Day is now a great excuse for fireworks, family parties, good food and good times. Denver will find most of that (no fireworks) this Friday through Sunday (July 11, 12 and 13) at the 2nd annual Bastille Day French Fest on Fillmore Plaza in Cherry Creek North.
The weekend will feature live cultural performances — keep an eye peeled for Cirque du Soleil performers — along with a fashion show, local and international artists and vendors and, of course, plenty of delicious food.

"I think food is always top of mind when people think of France," says RMFACC executive director Sacha Francois. "And the festival will have plenty of delicious things to eat and drink." Some of the offerings include sweet and savory crêpes by Captain Crêpes Denver, pâtés, rillettes and cheese from Goudy's French Cuisine, raclette sandwiches from Sweet Life Culinary Productions and locally produced Sweet Action ice cream.

Shoppers can snap up chic linen tea towels and other textiles from My French Decor, perfume, bath, and body products from Pardon My French & Co. along with jewelry, candles and other ooo la la-worthy purchases from a variety of vendors.

Musical performances — all free, but RSVPs recommended — include New Orleans funk and jazz from Krewe De Groove; high-energy rock all the way from France from La Jarry; gypsy jazz; a French disco; Edith Piaf tribute and much more. (A full line-up of performances is here.) There'll also be a Breton fiddle performance and dance workshop, a fashion show celebrating local designers and boutiques, and an opportunity for children and adults to create their own masterpieces with local French artist Chaa.
Ticketed events include a celebratory Champagne and caviar tasting at Roche Bobois on Friday ($150 per person), a seated wine dinner on Saturday ($195) and three rosé wine pairing experiences on Saturday and Sunday ($75). Tickets are still available for all events, but sold out last year. Au revoir, and see you there!

Bastille Day French Fest at Fillmore Plaza, 105 Fillmore Street, 4 to 10 p.m. Friday, July 11, noon to 10 p.m. Saturday, July 12, noon to 7 p.m. Sunday, July 13; find more information at rmfacc.org