THE 23ND ANNUAL BASTILLE DAY FESTIVAL on july 13: fun, free, and air-conditioned

The Alliance Française de Portland presents the 23rd Annual Bastille Day Festival on July 13, 2025, in celebration of the French National Holiday. Like our Fourth of July, the French National Holiday celebrates a revolution that changed a nation. In 1789 the French stormed the Bastille prison, marking the birth of the modern French nation. The storming of the Bastille symbolizes the values of Liberté, Fraternité, and Egalité which endure in the hearts of the French people and resonates world-wide.

Where & When
📍 Castaway Portland, 1900 NW 18th Ave. Portland OR 97209
📅 Sunday, July 13, 2025
🕐 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

What You'll Find at the Bastille Day Festival

Enjoy a French-themed market, used French book sale, representatives from French immersion schools, and children’s activities, and more (see below)—all set to a curated French playlist that creates a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for conversation and connection.

Fabulous Used Book Sale

All nature of books in French, from classics to manga and thrillers. Plus books about France in English. All are deals you won't want to miss. The choices are many, so start browsing!

Vendors

Meet the vendors representing various aspects of French culture, arts and crafts, and education, providing a vibrant and engaging experience for all attendees.

Children's Activities

Families are welcome! A dedicated outdoor children’s area will be available during the event, featuring fun arts and crafts activities, games, and face painting — the perfect space for kids to play, create, and enjoy the celebration.

Pétanque

Try your hand at this traditional French game. If you've played  horseshoes, you have a good start on pétanque.

Face Painting

A face painting artist will be at the event to entertain kids with fun designs.

Raffle

Raffle tickets will be available for purchase at the event, giving you a chance to win exciting prizes!

French Immersion Schools

Curious about French education in Portland? Bastille Day is the perfect opportunity to meet representatives from French immersion schools operating in the metro area. Whether you're a parent exploring bilingual options for your child, an educator interested in language programs, or simply someone passionate about French culture, you’ll be able to learn more about the unique opportunities these schools offer.

Food From Local French And Francophone Vendors

Enjoy delicious food and treats from local French and Francophone vendors, showcasing the rich culinary diversity of our community. We are also currently seeking additional vendors — if you offer French-inspired or Francophone cuisine and would like to be part of this festive event, we’d love to hear from you!  Contact info@afportland.org.


 

PARKING

Street parking on SW 20th St. facing the Kamm House is limited. Free parking is available in Lot A at SW 18th and SW Columbia. Please obtain a parking pass from the office. After 6 pm weekdays, students may park in the Willamette Dental lot at SW 20th and SW Jefferson as available.

OFFICE HOURS

The Alliance office is open 10am-3pm Monday through Friday.
Call us at 503.223.8388 during business hours or leave a message.
Email us at  info@afportland.org.

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