Bastille Celebration in Philadelphia

The French Revolution began on July 14, 1789, with the storming of the infamous Bastille Prison – a symbol of oppression and tyranny. Today, La Fete Nationale (French National Day) is celebrated around the world by French speakers and lovers of French culture. In America, one of the biggest parties goes down in Philadelphia at the Eastern State Penitentiary. On Saturday, July 11, our city’s infamous prison hosts a massive Bastille Day block party – and the surrounding neighborhood gets in on the fun. Highlights of the annual Bastille celebration in Philadelphia include:

  • Outdoor dining & drinking
  • The Bearded Ladies Cabaret Show
  • Storming of the prison to “La Marseillaise”
  • Real, functioning guillotine
  • Kids activities including crafts, face painting & photo booth
  • After-parties in the charming neighborhood of Fairmount at London Grill, Paris Wine Bar, The Belgian Café, Bridgid’s and Rembrandt’s
  • French dinner specials at local bars and restaurants
  • Dancing in the streets with The West Philadelphia Orchestra until 9:30PM
  • Twilight tours at the Penitentiary for just $10

Admission to the Bastille celebration in Philadelphia is free, however VIP packages are available for $40. Eastern State Penitentiary is situated at 2124 Fairmount Avenue, just 1.4 miles away from our centrally located luxury hotel. Stay with us and enjoy a revolutionary luxury experience, with award-winning amenities and spectacular surroundings. Would you like to know more about the Bastille celebration in Philadelphia? Do you have questions about our unique hotel? Please contact us today by calling 1 (800) 635-1042 for more information, and to book your reservations.