Are the kiddos bummed at the thought of Fourth of July festivities coming to an end? Never fear! Bastille Day is on its way, and with it some exciting family activities. While you’re busy enjoying all the best summer activities for kids and outdoor activities for kids, don’t forget to stop by! Oh, and in case you weren’t already familiar with Bastille Day, it’s also known as French National Day, a holiday that celebrates the beginning of the French Revolution and the Storming of the Bastille. Here's what we're most excited to do:
Explore CMA’s children’s workshops
Little ones can try their hand at making Bastille Day-themed pixel shadow puppets, contribute to an Impressionist-style collage inspired by Monet’s “Water Lilies,” mold a masterpiece at Clay Bar, catch an animated flick or head to the Sound Booth for "Daft for Punk" to create your own tracks. July 14, noon–6pm (cmany.org). Free with museum admission. Ages 5 and up.
See a Petanque tournament
Try bites from local booths and restaurants and stop by to check out Boerum Hill’s massive Petanque tourney outside Bar Tabac (for those not familiar with the game, the goal is to throw metal balls as close as possible to a small wooden ball while confined to a small circle with both feet on the ground). Teams of three will compete all day long on packed sand courts, so you can’t miss it! July 10, noon. See the listing here. All ages.
Celebrate Bastille Day on 60th St
The largest Bastille Day celebration in New York is at 60th St, and there’s fun for everyone. You’ll catch a special performance from the cast of An American in Paris, see can-can dancers, hear live music from Hungry March Band and have access to excellent food offerings from spots like Dominique Ansel, Francois Payard Bakery, Macaron Café and more. Family-specific activities include a French puppet show featuring the three little pigs and a Kids’ Corner & FIAF Pop-Up Library where the littles will enjoy French-inspired games and story time. July 10, noon–5pm. East 60th St from Fifth to Lexington Aves. All ages.