If you can’t make it to the Côte d’Azur this summer, no worries—L’Alliance New York is bringing the south of France straight to Madison Avenue.
Mark your calendars: Sunday, July 13, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., the city will transform into a Francophile’s paradise as L’Alliance New York hosts its biggest Bastille Day celebration yet. This isn’t just a party—it’s a weekend-long extravaganza that spans both Montclair, NJ and Midtown Manhattan, with food, film, fashion, and fun for the whole family.
A French Riviera Vibe—Right on Madison Avenue
Picture this: sipping a chilled rosé, dancing in the sunshine, and strolling through a pop-up lawn decked out like the Côte d’Azur—all without leaving the city. The Manhattan celebration, taking over Madison Avenue from 59th to 63rd Streets, is designed to be immersive, breezy, and oh-so-French.
More than 50 curated booths will feature the best of French cuisine, artisan goods, and luxurious finds. From Wafels & Dinges and Maman to Julien Boulangerie and Brasserie Cognac East, this is not your average street fair—it’s a taste tour of France, one flaky croissant at a time.
Fun for the Whole Family
L’Alliance New York hasn’t forgotten the kids! Families will love the Cannes-inspired activity booths like photo ops, handprint art, and fragrance discovery stations. There will also be classic French games like pétanque, soccer activities with The French Football Federation, and even fencing demos courtesy of Sheridan Fencing Academy.
Kids can meet French storybook character Martine, enjoy flower-making crafts, and experience two whimsical performances from “The Bathers” (Les Baigneurs).
Tasting Parties & French Cinema
Need a break from the sun? Head indoors to the chic Le Skyroom for a tasting party featuring summer drinks, light bites, and a lively band. There are two seatings—1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.—but space is limited, so come early!
Francophiles and film lovers will adore the screenings at the Florence Gould Theater. The afternoon kicks off with Jacques Tati’s “Jour de fête” at 1:30 p.m.—a charming French comedy fit for the whole family. Later, at 5:30 p.m., catch the New York premiere of “Bonnard, Pierre & Marthe,” a stunning romance that debuted at Cannes.
Shop the French Garden
Between 61st and 62nd Streets, you’ll find The French Garden—a luxury market featuring fine French goods. Think Président cheese, Angelina Paris confections, Café d’Avignon delights, and so much more. Plus, the City of Cannes is hosting their own mini-experience with a cinema backdrop, artisan booths, and immersive workshops.
Want to Win a Trip to Cannes?
Yes, really. This year’s raffle prizes are magnifique! Enter to win amazing gifts like:
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A month of personal training at Asphalt Green
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Vintage 1960s French jewelry
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A deluxe macaron box
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A self-care pamper set
And for two lucky winners? An all-expenses-paid trip to Cannes—the ultimate Francophile dream.
Come Celebrate Bastille Day with L’Alliance
In addition to the Manhattan festivities on Sunday, the Montclair campus of L’Alliance New York will celebrate on July 11 and 12 with French films, a shopping day, children’s story time, live music, and the iconic Bastille Day Garden Party at Van Vleck House & Gardens.
Don’t forget to stop by one of the L’Alliance booths to learn more about French language classes, memberships (now with a 10% Bastille Day discount!), upcoming events—and grab some exclusive merch while you’re there.
🎉 Full Manhattan Schedule – Sunday, July 13
12:00 PM – Festivities Begin
12:15 PM – The Bathers Show #1
12:50 PM – Welcome Speeches
1:00 PM–4:00 PM – Paper Flower Workshop
1:00 PM–2:30 PM – Tasting Party #1
1:15 PM – Salsa Dance Class
1:30 PM – Film: Jour de fête
2:15 PM – Jazz/Funk Fusion Dance Class
3:15 PM – Ballet Dance Class
3:30 PM–5:00 PM – Tasting Party #2
4:30 PM – The Bathers Show #2
5:00 PM – Street Festival Ends
5:30 PM – Film: Bonnard, Pierre & Marthe (NY Premiere)
This Bastille Day, grab your stripes, your best beret, and say bonjour to a one-of-a-kind celebration that only New York—and L’Alliance New York—can pull off.
Vive la France! 🇫🇷
