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Bastille Day Festival: Celebrating 250 Years of French American Friendship and Culture
At Embarcadero Plaza — Saturday, July 18th, 2026
The Official Committee of French American Organizations of San Francisco and the Bay Area, along with the French Consulate in San Francisco, are proud to announce the return of the 7th annual Bastille Day Festival on Saturday, July 18, 2026, 11am to 6pm, at Embarcadero Plaza.
From 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Embarcadero Plaza will come alive with the sights, sounds, and flavors of France. This free public event—organized under the patronage of the Consul General of France in San Francisco, Valerie Brisset—welcomes Francophones, Francophiles, and the entire Bay Area community.
The festival also highlights France's excellence in craftsmanship and technological innovation, showcasing the country's creativity and entrepreneurial spirit in the heart of San Francisco.
This event is made possible thanks to the generous support of their donors, including platinum and gold sponsors: La Société de Bienfaisance Mutuelle San Francisco, La Ligue Henri IV, Bay Area Faneurs, the Franco-American Loge of Odd Fellows No. 207, La Gauloise, French bee, Calparrio/ClubMed, VGS Chateau Potelle and Enchanted Tools.
Savor French Culinary Delights
Discover exceptional French specialties and artisan products from vendors such as Fabrique Délices, La Boulangerie, Brioche Pasquier/Galaxy Desserts, La Crêpe à moi, Le Carousel Pâtisserie, Maison Fontaine and Braid Bakery, among others.
Wine lovers can explore selections from VGS Château Potelle, Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Martine's Wines and The Organic Wine Company.
Festival Highlights
- Live French music and performances featuring Ron Boreli, Duo GadJo & friends and La Gauloise All Stars
- A lively Kermesse (outdoor fair) atmosphere
- French food booths, wine, beer and Evian stand
- Learn to play Pétanque, the classic French lawn game
- A Waiters' Race (Course de Serveuses et Garçons de Café)
- Guided tours of the French Quarter by San Francisco City Guides – sign up online and meet on-site
- A vintage Citroën car show
- A Tahitian dance performance by Manuia Polynesian Revue – with a chance to win two tickets to Tahiti or Paris, courtesy of gold sponsor French bee
- A free raffle for a chance to win an all-inclusive five-day stay for two at Club Med, courtesy of Club Med and Calparrio Travels
Exhibitors include the San Francisco Alliance Française, the French History Museum, La Ligue Henri IV, La Societe de Bienfaisance Mutuelle-SF, Plastic Odyssey, as well as local artisans — all on-site to connect with the community.
A Legacy of French American Friendship
In San Francisco, the French community has played an important role in shaping the city's history and cultural landscape. Since the Gold Rush era, French immigrants have contributed to the city's development by founding businesses, launching newspapers, establishing social and cultural organizations, and supporting civic life.
The first Bastille Day celebration in San Francisco took place in 1880, marking the beginning of a long-standing tradition of celebrating French heritage and the bonds of friendship between France and the United States. Today, this annual event continues to bring together people of all backgrounds to honor a shared history and vibrant multicultural connection.
Saturday, July 18, 2026 | Embarcadero Plaza | San Francisco
For more information: www.celebratebastilledaysf.org
This is a zero-waste and smoke-free event, in alignment with the City of San Francisco's environmental policies
