Best Bastille Day Events

Jess Righthand | Updated 07/12/2011 French expats, croissant connoisseurs and anyone who has launched into daydreams of 1920s Paris after seeing Woody Allen's charming new flick, "Midnight in Paris," have good reason to celebrate France this week. Bastille Day is officially on Thursday, but many festivities are on Saturday, yielding twice the opportunities to experience a bit of France in Washington. Elegant soirees, a concert by a French virtuoso and a baguette race are but a few of the week's offerings.

Washington, DC | 7/14 In an attempt to revive the waiter race held by Les Halles for many years, Paul's Bakery and Cafe in the West End is hosting a relay race around the U.S. Navy Memorial, led by members of their staff. Competitors will be divided into teams of six, and instead of running with a baton, participants pass a baguette. Each member of the winning team receives a $25 gift card to the bakery.

Washington, DC | 7/14 For a flat-out party, you're not going to beat the scene at Bistrot du Coin. For most of the evening, it's business as usual at the lively French restaurant, if slightly more crowded. Then, around 11, tables and chairs are moved out of the way, a DJ cranks up pumping house music and, before you know it, women are dancing on the zinc-topped bar, expats are shouting to be heard over the din and friends are hoisting beers while singing French football songs.

Washington, DC | 7/14 French guitar virtuoso Stephane Wrembel (who wrote the theme song to Woody Allen's "Midnight in Paris") and his quartet will perform an evening of classic French Jazz and original music.

Washington, DC | 7/14 A "French maid race" on a closed block of Vernon Street is the centerpiece of the cafe's annual celebration, which also includes DJs spinning French tunes on the patio, can-can dancers and a street festival with food and beer trucks.

Washington, DC | 7/14 In honor of the annual French bike race, Whole Foods continues its July "Tour de Fromage" with a special Bastille Day tasting of French cheese. Enjoy the distinct flavors of the soft, creamy Florette goat cheese; the rare, pungent Reblochon; and the sweet Swiss Le Marechal. Wine or champagne is included with the tasting.

Washington, DC | 7/14 The Georgetown restaurant features jazz singer Amy Bormet and happy hour with half-price wine by the glass in its cozy wine bar and a special Bastille Day menu in the downstairs dining room.

Washington, DC | 7/16 Chefs from several area restaurants, including Michel Richard's Citronelle, Cafe du Parc, Bistrot Lepic and Wine Bar, and Et Voila!, contribute dishes to an expansive buffet. Live music and an open bar.