Food. Wine. Art. This Feast-ival has it all.
Bastille Festival, the Food Wine Art Revolution, recently renamed from the BBR Festival, will not only celebrate all things French, but unify people and countries around the world for Bastille Day weekend on the 13th – 16th of July.
Fun fact: BBR stands for Bleu Blanc Rouge, and if you didn’t pay attention to any of your French lessons in high school like me, it’s named after the three colours of the flag. Okay lesson over, moving along…
Hosted right in the heart of Sydney’s Circular Quay, do not miss this huge 4 day street celebration where there is entertainment aplenty. It’s also free entry. Need I say more? Apparently I do…
In its 5th year running, Bastille Festival is sharing and celebrating French culture with more attractions and entertainers than ever before! Join in on the French fun and festivities and, for those who skipped class all those years, you can learn some French while you’re at it too! Stuck on what to do? Here are some highlights to look out for:
- 4 food villages
- Wine bars
- Beer gardens
- 14 live concerts
- 2 DJ sets
- 1 cabaret show
- 8 movie screenings
- 40 street live performances
The festival is divided up into 4 main sections;
The Bleu Blanc Rouge & French Emporium Villages
Customs House Square and Scout Place
If you’re feeling a bit fancy and want to celebrate anything and everything French, this is the place to be. Gourmet food, live performances, films, traditional cabaret and so much more! For those avid champagne lovers, you can even hone in on your knowledge by going to a wine and Champagne master class that highlights the varieties from different regions of France.
The Nordic Village
East Circular Quay
If you’re a massive foodie, then the rest of Europe will accompany you into a food coma! Belgium, Germany, Switzerland and the Netherlands have prepared a variety of dishes and drinks to satisfy every craving. From mussels and cheese to hot dogs and pretzels, all the way to dessert favourites such as waffles and pancakes, there is something for everyone on the diverse menu. The Electro Beer Garden is also a must for beer lovers!
The Latin Village
First Fleet Park
Moving right along to burn off those carbs, it’s time to start dancing! Italy, Greece, Portugal and Spain are sharing the best parts of their culture through a variety of fun activities. Take part in salsa lessons, watch traditional folk dancing or keep eating with delicious foods – the choices are never ending! Different cuisines will immerse you into the European lifestyle including a Spanish paella or famous Italian pasta! Live like the South of Europe does without ever leaving Circular Quay.
Other attractions to look out for:
Live Street Shows
Conveniently located right in Circular Quay, there will be performers, singers, dancers, folk dancers, magicians and anything else you can think of! Did I forget to mention the fire twirlers? Live music concerts and dance parties are located throughout the entire festival meaning you can get your groove on and join right in with the performers and learn some moves!
Le Cinema
Tallowoladah Lawn, The Rocks
The famous open-air cinema is set to return in 2017! With 2 screenings every night, you can watch one of your favourite international-award winning films (don’t worry, there are subtitles). It may be cold but a warm blanket, family and friends, deck chairs (only 50 available so book in quick!), will win you over to experience a movie like never before! Or, if you’re stuck on ideas for date night, then an old soul movie under the stars is just what you need! Tickets are $18. Click here to purchase your tickets.
While you’re in Tallowoladah Lawn, you may as well experience the Champagne Bar. Take part in enjoying the drink of the gods and get the ultimate experience and grab another a glass of bubbly before the movie!
If you’re in the mood to eat (and of course drink) till your heart’s content, or if you feel like dancing your way through the festival or even watching one of the international films at the open-air cinema…Bastille Festival has all bases covered! With such an abundance of food going around, you’ll surely be back the next day for another food coma. Bon appѐtit!
By Sahar Nessar
