Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of France as Bastille Festival Sydney returns to Circular Quay from Thursday, July 11 to Sunday, July 14, 2024. This highly anticipated 4-day extravaganza, now the largest French cultural event held outside of France, draws over 650,000 enthusiasts annually. This year, it promises an unparalleled celebration of French culture, igniting the Paris Olympic spirit in the heart of Sydney with the Bastille Olympic Village.
PARIS OLYMPICS ARE COMING TO CIRCULAR QUAY!
As the world anticipates the 2024 Paris Olympics, Sydney will embrace the Olympic fervour with the centrepiece of this year’s festival—the Bastille Olympic Village. Nestled within the festivities, the Village will transport visitors straight to Paris. At its heart, the Bastille Olympic Village features awe-inspiring oversized 3D sculptures capturing the essence of iconic Paris landmarks, including a breathtaking 6-meter-high replica of the Eiffel Tower. This stunning installation promises to transport visitors to the City of Light.
For the young and young at heart, the Village will host engaging sports workshops where you can try fencing, basketball, badminton, and archery guided by seasoned coaches and sporting personalities. These workshops are designed to inspire and energise, echoing the excitement and competitive spirit of the upcoming Olympics.
Mr. Martin Juillard, the Consulate-General of France, exclaimed, “Paris Olympics will be a landmark in the history of the Games – as much as Sydney Olympics once were. We’re happy to celebrate everything that unites the two cities, the two people, and beyond them, the values and friendship we all share, through the Olympic spirit. Come and get a scent of Paris here in Sydney.”
No Olympic celebration would be complete without a parade. On Saturday, July 13th, a vibrant procession will unite athletes, performers, and community groups for the Bastille Olympic Parade from Circular Quay to The Rocks. Together, they will celebrate the Olympic spirit and the profound cultural ties between France and Australia.
CIRCULAR QUAY | NON-STOP ENTERTAINMENT OVER 3 STAGES!
Celebrate Bastille Day in Sydney with a magnifique lineup that will transport you straight to the heart of France! Spanning 22,000+ square meters across 7 sites, the festival will offer 124 FREE shows featuring 344 artists, live concerts, DJs, dance classes, and more, ensuring there’s something to delight every taste and interest!
Join us as the festivities commence with an enchanting medley of French jazz. Featuring the soulful Paris to Rio Jazz, the captivating Anna Weaving Collective, and the whimsical Coucou Zazous. Jazz lovers, meet in front of the Museum of Contemporary Art to enjoy the delightful violin notes of Daniele Montarulo or the shining saxophone of Bruno Gerhard, as they bring the spirit of a Parisian jazz cafe to our shores.
Feel the rhythm pulse through every performance, embodying the essence of joie de vivre. From the electrifying energy of La Faya to the retro charm of Swing dancing, the Brazilian twist of Sydney Samba, and the passionate flair of Los Carmonas Flamenco, each act promises to ignite your senses. Experience the acrobatic grace of Capoeira, the elegance of French cancan with Les Femmes Diamant, and the vibrant beats of Kiltir Tropical.
For those who crave rock and pop, don’t miss Fireglow and the Soulganic band’s electrifying concerts on Thursday and Saturday nights. Their high-energy hits and infectious rhythms will keep you dancing well into the night.
As the sun sets, dance under the stars at our DJ nights on Friday and Saturday, where the pulsating beats create an atmosphere reminiscent of a lively Parisian soirée.
Don your beret, savour a baguette, and immerse yourself in a weekend filled with music, dance, and the vibrant celebration of French culture in the heart of Sydney.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Thursday, July 11
CUSTOMS HOUSE STAGE | 8pm to 10pm, Anna Weaving Collective
Friday, July 12
FIRST FLEET PARK STAGE | 8pm to 10:30pm, DJ Night
Saturday, July 13
FIRST FLEET PARK STAGE |12:30pm to 1:30pm, FREE Swing Dancing class
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART STAGE | 7pm to 9pm, Bruno Gerhard
FIRST FLEET PARK STAGE | 7:30pm to 8:30pm, CABARET SHOW – Les Femmes Diamant
FIRST FLEET PARK STAGE | 9pm to 11pm, Soulganic Concert
Sunday, July 14
CUSTOMS HOUSE STAGE | 3:30pm to 5:30pm, Soulganic Duo
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART STAGE | 6pm to 8pm, Matt Boylan-Smith
FIRST FLEET PARK STAGE | 6:30pm to 8:30pm, La Faya
NEW ADDITION TO THE FESTIVAL, A SERIES OF UNIQUE TICKETED MASTERCLASSES WITH A FRENCH TOUCH!
INDULGE YOUR PASSION FOR CULINARY EXCELLENCE!
Hands-on to our exclusive food and wine masterclasses, where you’ll embark on a culinary journey led by gourmet chefs and expert sommeliers. From mastering the art of wine pairing to creating delectable pastries, savoury dishes, and indulgent chocolate, our classes promise a feast for the senses.
Join pastry chef Yves Scherrer, coach of the 2019 Australian Team in the World Pastry Cup, as he guides you through crafting a passionfruit soufflé and a decadent chocolate fondant. Delve into the secrets of perfecting a cheese soufflé and lemon curd madeleines with Fabio Salvato, renowned for his expertise from Michelin-starred restaurants. Whether you’re a novice enthusiast or a seasoned epicurean, these classes are designed to elevate your culinary skills to new heights.
DIVE INTO A WORLD OF CREATIVITY.
Whether you’re captivated by comic drawing or the dynamic art of street murals, we have just the thing, to spark your imagination. Discover the art of spray painting to breathe life into your urban visions or explore the ancient craft of soap making for a truly unique experience.
Join Jan Scherpenhuizen as he explores the captivating realms of French and Australian comic art. Gain insights, receive portfolio reviews, and immerse yourself in hands-on storyboarding sessions that will enhance your skills.
In our exclusive cellar, engage with renowned philosophers Dr. Peter Slezak and James Franklin as they delve into a lively debate on Pascal’s Wager, complemented by fine wines. Alternatively, embrace the allure of the Moulin Rouge with workshops that teach a variety of burlesque moves and choreography.
For photography enthusiasts, seize the essence of the festival with our photo masterclass. Participate in a Bastille Wine Walk tour and enter our camera contest for a chance to fantastic prizes.
GRAB YOUR BASTILLE WINE PASSPORT, LET’S GO TASTING!
Bastille favourite Wine Tasting tour is back! Wine enthusiasts can embark on a tasting adventure with the Bastille Wine Walk, spanning 1.4km through The Rocks and Circular Quay. Armed with your Bastille French Passport and branded tasting glass, you’ll embark on a self-guided wine tour. Along this journey, indulge in wines from 8 prestigious French regions : Loire Valley, Burgundy, Beaujolais, Bordeaux, Alsace, Rhône Valley, Provence, and Languedoc. This trip to France will guide you through eight bars throughout the festival, where each bar will stamp your passport to ensure to ensure you don’t miss a sip of these exquisite wines.
New addition this year, the exquisite wines of the Loire Valley! This esteemed French vineyard region is celebrated for its diverse offerings, and crafts wines that are fresh, fruity, floral, and elegant. Immerse yourself in the rich flavours and heritage of the Loire Region on your own personal Tour de France of wines.
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE HEART OF FRENCH CINEMA AT “LE MULLED WINE CINEMA”
Le Mulled Wine Cinema returns to Cadmans cottage in The Rocks, offering a cinematic experience featuring famous French movies under the stars, set against breathtaking views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Complete your cinematic journey with the warmth of mulled wine, all from the comfort of your own deck chair and cozy blankets to keep you warm.
Immerse yourself in the most romantic love stories! From “Eiffel” to the iconics “La Vie en Rose” and “Moulin Rouge”. Step into the world of Honoré de Balzac and uncover the journey of a young poet, brimming with dreams, as he explores 19th-century Paris and its vibrant arts and literature scene, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Amélie Poulain or explore the secrets of French gastronomy through the thrilling story of the gastronome Dodin.
For kids and families, dive into culinary adventures with the famous rat who cooks “Ratatouille” explore the heartwarming family tale of “The Aristocrats” and follow the legendary adventures of the last “Gaulois.”
EXPERIENCE “LES 4 DINERS EXTRAORDINAIRES” IN QUAY QUARTER LANE.
Le Diner extraordinaire is Bastille’s festive dining experience at Sydney’s trendiest culinary destination.
For 4 nights, Bastille will host a series of one-of-a kind dinners in collaborations with the talented chefs from the Quay Quarter Lanes. Expect an endless long table in the intimate precinct, surprising live entertainment and a 4- courses French-inspired menu paired with 3 French wines.
Only 4 sessions will be hosted this year and you can select your vibes to accompany the dinner; From a classical symphony, to cabaret night, a piano bar show or a DJ and sax combo live set.
The mouthwatering menu is the result of the collaboration between Sydney’s favourite tapas bar Deux Freres, the Italian-inspired restaurant Bar Mamonni and the deliciously creative gelato bar, Zini Contemporary Gelateria. The Dinner will start at 6pm Thursday to Friday and 12pm for a lunch special on the Sunday.
SESSION TIMES
Thursday 11th of July | 6pm
Friday 12th of July | 6pm
Saturday 13th of July | 6pm
Sunday 14th of July | 12pm
NEW THIS YEAR – SHOP WITHOUT GUILT ALL ALONG GETAWAY PLAZA!
For those with a penchant for sustainable shopping, Bastille Festival Sydney presents a Second-hand Market and Art Fair. Curated by local artisans, this market offers a guilt-free shopping experience with pre-loved items ranging from clothing and books to furniture and art, all inspired by Parisian elegance.
A PET-FRIENDLY CELEBRATION!
Pets have become an integral part of the Bastille Festival. With ample outdoor space and a lively, friendly environment, the festival ensures pets can partake in the festivities hassle-free. Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant markets or enjoying a performance, your pets are welcome to join in the fun, making the Sydney Bastille Festival a truly inclusive and celebration.
ABOUT BASTILLE FESTIVAL
The Sydney Bastille Festival is an annual four-day celebration that brings the spirit of France to the heart of Sydney in honour of French Bastille Day, celebrated on July 14th. Officially known as “La Fête Nationale” in French, it commemorates two significant events in French history: the Storming of the Bastille and the Fête de la Fédération, fostering a sense of national pride and unity.
For the past 11 years, Sydney has proudly hosted the Bastille Festival, which has become a beloved fixture in the city’s vibrant festival scene. Set against the stunning backdrop of Circular Quay and The Rocks, this spectacular four-day event features a grand array of culinary delights, artistic displays, and cultural experiences. The festival creates a vibrant and immersive French atmosphere, delighting locals and visitors alike.
Dates: 11–14 July 2024
Location: Circular Quay, The Rocks, Customs House, Quay Quarter Lanes, Overseas Passenger.
Cost: Free to attend – Ticketed experiences start from $20pp
Join us at the Bastille Festival in Circular Quay from Thursday, July 11, 2024, to Sunday, July 14, 2024! Enjoy free entry to the festival and explore unforgettable ticketed experiences starting from just $20.
Visit bastillefestival.com.au
