Bastille Day commemorates the Storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, which happened two days after the beginning of the French Revolution. Chicago remembers Bastille day in its own way, with celebrations all over the city. Whether you want to check out the city's best restaurants or appreciate French art, you can find something to do on Bastille Day right here in the Midwest.
French art tour at the Art Institute of Chicago: Learn about 18th, 19th and 20th century works by French artists at the Art Institute of Chicago. From noon–1pm, you can learn about Georges Seurat and more—in French or in English. 12–1pm, French tour meet in Gallery 100, English tour meet in Griffin Court. Free with museum admission.
Try Chicago's best French restaurants: Whether you want a late-night bite at Maude's Liquor Bar or are looking to emulate an afternoon on the French countryside at Bistro Campagne, Chicago's French restaurants do a good job of providing the favorites. Restaurant opening times vary by location.
Picnic and games at Montrose Beach: Alliance Française puts on an evening of family-friendly events like pétanque, face-painting and a waiters' race along with a movie screening of the French animated film The Rabbi's Cat. Bring a picnic and enjoy the evening on the beach. 5:30–11pm, Montrose Beach, free.
Eat your way through the best French macarons: These tiny, delicate and hard to make pastries are all over the city, but we have our favorites. Find the ones we love most in unlikely spots like the Slurping Turtle as well as at French restaurants like Pierrot Gourmet. Restaurant and bakery opening times vary by location.
Grab lunch at the French Market: Snag lunch from a variety of vendors at this European-style market, owned by the Bensidoun family of the same market in Paris. 7am–7:30pm, 131 N Clinton Ave.