Bonjour et bienvenue, Melbourne!
French markets are rightly famed for their charm, atmosphere and fine food. And for two glorious days, you can savour the very same experience at Melbourne’s own Queen Victoria Market.
Melbourne’s relationship with France was considered so important during our city’s infancy, a consulate was established way back in 1852.
During the earliest days of cinema, The Lumière brothers took a shine to our city and filmed the 1896 Melbourne Cup winner Newhaven.
Around the same time came Alliance Française Melbourne, which more recently found a well-deserved new headquarters on Bourke Street in the centre of the Melbourne action.
French people have always been warmly welcomed in our city.
How lucky we are to benefit from their influence in our restaurants, wine bars, research labs, law firms, arts scene, and countless other parts of Melbourne life.
France is also justly celebrated as a forward-thinking nation.
I was so inspired by former Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo’s transformation of the River Seine into a clean, public swimming spot, I set in motion a plan to make our Yarra River – Birrarung swimmable again near the city centre.
With all these similarities to Paris, Melbourne is the natural place for a truly authentic celebration of Bastille Day.
The 2026 festival showcases outstanding French-Australian businesses and promises all the joie de vivre of France in winter.
Thrill to the can-can. Laugh and cheer with friends over a game of pétanque. Learn about cheese and wine pairing at a cosy masterclass. Enjoy a walking tour or even discover the future of electric energy at Les Lumières Talks.
A word of caution, though. At this year’s Bastille Day Festival, the fromage, vin chaud and pâtisseries are more irresistible than ever – so be sure to save room.
Bonne fête!
