Something for Everyone!

BMO Harris Bank Storm the Bastille Run/Walk
Milwaukee downtown’s favorite 5K fun run is back on opening night, Thursday, July 12, as over 5,000 runners and walkers flood the streets, reenacting the revolutionary storming of the Bastille prison for the BMO Harris Bank Storm the Bastille 5k run. Starting at 9 p.m., the 5K-run/2-mile walk leads participants through downtown’s East Town and Historic Third Ward neighborhoods.

New Mardi Gras Friday Celebration
New for 2012, Bastille Days presents Mardi Gras Friday featuring a discounted happy hour from 5–7 p.m. with specially themed drinks and entertainment. In addition, impromptu parades throughout the night and thousands of beads will make all Francophiles in attendance think they’re in Nawlin’s!

Eclectic Entertainment for All Ages
In addition to roaming buskers, mimes and other Parisian performers, fest-goers will find an eclectic mix of music across four stages, including French ballads, jazz, folk, world, Cajun, blues, zydeco and rock throughout the celebration. Families are encouraged to embrace Milwaukee’s French heritage on Sat., July 14 for the annual Kid’s Day celebration boasting a French-themed breakfast, ballet lessons and soccer drills, among other exciting events.

Other weekend highlights include the Pooch Parade (click for more info) on Saturday, July 14 where costumed canines compete for great prizes and the famed Waiter/Waitress Race (click for more info) on Sunday, July 15 as area restaurants compete for a prestigious first place title while completing a complicated and hilarious obstacle course.

Bastille Days Wine Tasting
Proving to be a great success in 2011, Bastille Days will again offer special ticketed Wine Tasting events on Friday and Saturday at 5:30 pm and 8:30 pm. Advance tickets are $25 or $35 day-of.

French Food, Wine & Gifts
With more than 90 merchant booths and over 25 restaurants, Bastille Days offers an international marché of French and Cajun food, memorabilia and gifts. Popular French items include delicacies such as crêpes, beignets, wine, champagne, and coveted gifts like Provençal fabrics, soaps, cards and art. 

Daily chef, wine and cheese demonstrations will also heat up the celebration as area chefs, sommeliers and fromageophiles tantalize taste buds.

The festival is free and open to the public.

The complete schedule of stage entertainment should be available shortly, so check back here!

For directions to Cathedral Square Park, CLICK HERE.