Melbourne’s annual Bastille Day French Festival is set to return to Queen Victoria Market this July for a weekend packed with French food, music, culture and community celebrations.
Running across Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 July 2026, the festival will once again take over Sheds C and D with free entry from 9am to 4pm daily, while selected masterclasses and satellite events will require paid tickets.
The popular winter event has become a favourite on Melbourne’s cultural calendar, bringing together local French-Australian producers, food traders and performers for two days of European-inspired festivities in the heart of the city.
Visitors can expect a strong food focus throughout the weekend with stalls serving up classics including croissants, raclette and warming cups of vin chaud, alongside a range of other French-inspired dishes and sweet treats.
Live entertainment will feature heavily throughout the festival with French music performances set to fill the market across both days, while pétanque returns to add a social outdoor element to the celebrations.
Beyond the food and music, the 2026 program will also include Les Lumières talks, interactive masterclasses and a series of satellite events including comedy sessions and a dedicated cheese and wine masterclass.
The festival continues to grow each year, transforming Queen Victoria Market into a lively French village atmosphere complete with bustling market stalls, cultural experiences and plenty of winter charm.
Whether visitors are stopping by for buttery pastries, a mulled wine or a full day of entertainment, the Bastille Day French Festival promises another vibrant weekend celebrating French culture in Melbourne. For more information visit bastilledaymelbourne.com
