The Bastille Days Festival is set to return at Cathedral Square Park in Milwaukee this July.
The festival kicks off on July 17 and continues until July 20. Organized by the local nonprofit organization East Town Association Inc., this event offers cuisine with a French twist along with live musical performances and activities suitable for families. In total, the festival aids more than 80 regional sellers, primarily comprising independent enterprises, and highlights approximately 100 artists and performers who are largely based locally.
Even with the obstacles posed by the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and lower turnout at the 2024 RNC, East Town Association continues to thrive due to unwavering backing from both our sponsors and community collaborators,” stated Eddie Sturkey, who serves as the executive director of East Town Association. “Our gratitude goes out particularly to our sponsors because their contributions enable us to offer free events for everyone each year. Operating as a nonprofit entity devoid of government subsidies, East Town Association depends significantly upon sponsorship funds and earnings generated through events to maintain its activities. We’re thrilled to welcome back past supporters such as Educators Credit Union, allowing us to present Bastille Days yet another time for everybody’s enjoyment.
This year’s celebrations begin with the renowned Storm the Bastille 5K run/walk on July 17th. The event winds through Milwaukee’s East Town and Historic Third Ward areas, marking the anniversary of the iconic assault on the Bastille prison in 1789. Prior to the start, participants can join warm-up exercises led by the Milwaukee Athletic Club at the beginning point; meanwhile, DJ Shawna will provide musical entertainment. Individuals signing up before July 1st get an exclusive commemorative race shirt. All registrants have the choice to contribute towards restoring the site’s 42-foot Eiffel Tower replica. For those interested in joining the race, registration details are available here.
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To contribute to the restoration of the Eiffel Tower replica, please click.
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The returning food vendors feature beloved local spots such as Beignet Francaise, Lake Park Bistro, Lagniappe Brasserie, and Crawdaddy’s on Greenfield. This year introduces new participants including Lupi & Iris, Margaux Brasserie, Xavier’s Crêpes, and Baked Cheese Haus.
The weekend-long wine-tasting events will resume, showcasing choices from Door Peninsula Winery.
The music schedule for this year features the internationally renowned rock group La Jarry hailing from France, alongside local performers such as Panadanza, Extra Crispy Brass Band, Big Spoon, and Breaking Cadence. Returning artist Robin Pluer will be accompanied by French singers CED and Kevin Soucie, along with Jerry Grillo presenting a French cabaret show. Additionally, Madame Gigi’s troupe of French Can-Can dancers will take the stage each day throughout the event.
Additionally, there will be a drag show along with musical performances from various bands serving as alternative entertainment options.
On July 19th, the Family-Friendly Event “Kids Day” takes place. This event includes art workshops hosted by the Milwaukee Art Museum’s Kohl’s Art Studio, French language classes provided by the Milwaukee French Immersion School, and musical acts from the School of Rock Shorewood. Attendees will have fun interacting with wandering street performers, touring the historic Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, posing at the French Bulldog Kissing Booth, or browsing through an array of international crafts and products available at the International Marketplace run by skilled artisans and merchants offering world merchandise.
To learn more about Bastille Days, please click.
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Bastille Days comes back to Milwaukee’s Cathedral Square Park in July.
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