On July 14, 1789 French revolutionaries stormed the Bastille in the name of liberty, equality and fraternity. Nearly a century and a half later, New Yorkers stormed Madison Ave in the name of crepes, wine and cheese.
FIAF (French Institute Alliance Francais) hosted its annual Bastille Day celebration on Sunday, July 10 on Madison Ave from 59th to 63rd. Vendors lined the streets selling everything French, including a crepes stand with a truly massive line. Almost every booth — whether it be for fashion, travel, food — boasted a long queue of patrons withstanding the sweltering July day. The festivities were all set to the backdrop of musical and dance performances at the main stage throughout the day.
The Knockturnal attended a private wine and cheese tasting event, featuring wines from Maison Antech, Château Maris, and Château Haut-Blanville, non-alcoholic wines from Le Petit Béret, gazpacho from Karine & Jeff and cheese selections from cheese2u.com. Attendees brought a punch card to each tasting station to get a glass or plate representing the flavors of the south of France.
Another private event was the champagne and musette party in the FIAF sky room, which has an impressive view of the city’s skyline. Chloé Perrier & the French Heart Jazz played old Paris tunes while attendees sipped champagne.
FIAF Bastille Day music guests included Paul Beaubrun, Cal Hunt, DJ Orson and an excerpt from the musical Norte Dame de Paris — all hosted by emcee Chandler Dean.
Bastille Day is Thursday, July 14.
