The French Cultural Center's signature Bastille Day Party was held on Marlborough Street on Friday, July 15, transporting guests to Paris with authentic music, food, drinks and atmosphere. Bastille Day, France's national holiday, commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison during the French Revolution of 1789.

For the second year in a row, all 2000 tickets were sold out in advance. The lineup, programmed by World Music/CRASHarts, showcased two phenomenal Francophone
acts: Ginkgoa, a blend of vintage Paris chic and New York cool with swinging electro beats, and Emeline Michel, an internationally acclaimed Haitian songstress fusing pop, jazz, blues and traditional rhythms.

In light of the Bastille Day tragedy in Nice, France, the Boston event was held in honor of the Nice victims.

Prior to the musical entertainment, the crowd observed a moment of silence and sang La Marseillaise, the French national anthem.

Back Bay's beautiful Marlborough Street was blocked off between Berkeley and Clarendon Streets to accommodate the revelers dancing in the street. Delicious French food from standout French restaurants in New England and drinks, including beer and wine, were available. The party, in true French style with live music and dancing, celebrates community, cultural diversity and friendship between nations.