Bastille Day Celebration 2026

Sunday, July 12, 2026 From 5:00 PM To 9:00 PM Add to Calendar 2026-07-12 17:00:00 2026-07-12 21:00:00 Bastille Day Celebration 2026 Vive la fête! Celebrate Bastille Day with us for an evening of live music, a joyful swing dance class, French delicacies, flowing drinks, and festive fun for all ages. Don’t miss Boston’s most charming summer celebration. 53 Marlborough Street, Boston, Massachusetts, United States America/New_York

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Bastille Day is back at the French Library! Celebrate la Fête nationale with an unforgettable evening of French music, flavors, and fun for all ages, in the elegant setting of our historic Back Bay townhouse.

It often starts with just a few steps and then the rhythm takes over. The accordion lifts, the room comes alive, and suddenly you’re dancing as if you were in a village square somewhere in France.

This year, we invite you not just to listen, but to join in. The evening will open at 5:00 PM with a swing dance class led by instructors from Boston Lindy Hop, who will guide you into the joyful, lilting rhythm of musette. Whether you’re a complete beginner or already love the dance floor, you’ll quickly find your groove.

Enjoy live performances by Musette Suzette, bringing the joyful spirit of the bal musette to Boston.

Then, from 8:00 PM, a DJ will keep the celebration going with a lively mix of contemporary French favorites and dance hits.

Bring the whole family; our kids’ craft table will be open from 5:00 to 6:00 PM, just before the music begins at 6:00 PM.

New this year, head upstairs to our Soccer Clubhouse on the second floor! Celebrate the excitement of the World Cup with foosball, kids' activities, soccer games, and a World Cup prediction challenge for a chance to win a special prize.

Throughout the evening, enjoy a delicious selection of French hors d’œuvres complemented by wine, sparkling and sweet treats.

Don’t forget to wear your most French-inspired outfit—prizes will be awarded for the best costumes.

Please note: this is a standing-room-only event.

Tickets Now on Sale!

Children under 14 attend free.

General Admission

$90

Purchase Tickets

Members discount

$75

Purchase Tickets

Kids under 14 (with adult)

FREE

Email us names + age

Dance & Music

Inspired by the spirit of a bal des pompiers, our Bastille Day celebration brings the heart of France to Boston through joyful dance and live music:

The evening begins with a lively swing dance class led by instructors from Boston Lindy Hop. Designed for all levels, this fun and welcoming introduction will help you step into the rhythm of musette and feel at ease on the dance floor—no experience required.

About Boston Lindy Hop
Boston Lindy Hop promotes swing dancing across the Boston area through welcoming classes for all levels. Participants can explore authentic vintage styles such as Lindy Hop, Charleston, and Vernacular Jazz—always in a fun, inclusive, and social atmosphere.

Musette Suzette returns as our beloved bal musette band, setting the mood with accordion-led classics and festive French tunes. Whether you're dancing, sipping wine, or simply enjoying the evening, their joyful energy will make you feel like you’re spending Bastille Day in a Parisian square.

Check out Musette Suzette

To close the evening, a DJ will take over from 8:00 to 9:00 PM with a lively mix of French favorites and contemporary dance hits, keeping the Bastille Day celebration going and the dance floor full.

Food & Drink

Throughout the evening, enjoy a delicious cocktail dînatoire featuring a refined selection of French hors d’œuvres, perfect for mingling and celebrating in true Bastille Day fashion.

Wines will be flowing, with a curated selection of French reds, whites, and rosés, alongside sparkling wine to toast the occasion. Sweet touches—including macarons and mousse au chocolat—will round out the evening on a festive note.