Off with their heads! …Okay, so Bastille Day isn’t actually about decapitating people. On July 14, 1789, the citizens of France had had enough of Louis the 16th’s tyrany. They stormed the Bastille, a prison that held people who were outspoken enough to oppose the French monarchy. (Imagine all the American citizens that would go to jail today for criticizing Bush….) As it turned out, there were only seven people in the jail at that time, and none of them were famous. Still, it was a symbolic gesture that marked the start of the French Revolution.

Bastille Day celebrations were held around the world this past weekend, and New York got in on the action with a “Street Fair with French Flair” on Sunday. Unfortunately, that’s about all it was. Held on Sixtieth Street from Fifth to Lexington Avenue, it was your typical ethnic street fair. The main draw seemed to be the food tents, which had long lines. They served up typical French fare, typified by crepes and pastries, including the decadent and pricey chocolates by Payard.
There were also a few French bands — The Penelopes, Poni Hoax, and Frustration – along with DJ sets. The acts that were playing whenever I walked by were really unimpressive. They were loud and looked very indie — not the cool, we’re signed to Saddle Creek or French Kiss type of indie, but the “will play for food” type of indie. They looked cool from their promotional photos, though, so maybe I’ll check them out on MySpace next time I get bored.
There were also some sports things, which I ignored. If you’re interested in soccer and cycling, check it out on your own time.
The radical, activist spirit of Bastille and the beautiful culture of France were missing from the street fair.

Anyone else attend the Bastille Day street fair? Were the bands any better when you saw them? Did you see the Cancan dancers? What was the best crepe?

There was also a celebration in Brooklyn? Any feedback on that one?