French National Day

French Day returns to the heart of Bratislava on the Main Square for the fourteenth time, celebrating the French national holiday with residents and visitors of the capital, on the occasion of the anniversary of the Storming of the Bastille.

The Bastille, a symbol of the “old regime”, was attacked and captured by the Parisians on July 14, 1789. This event marked the beginning of the Great French Revolution (1789 – 1799), during which the foundations of human rights were laid for the first time.

Visitors will be able to stroll through the French market on the Main Square – twenty stalls will offer refreshments in the form of delicious desserts, cheeses and drinks from 4:00 p.m.

In addition to French colors and flavors, lovers of the French language, sports and cosmetics will also find their place here. Just a few steps from the Main Square, the French Institute will offer creative activities for children and youth.

Just a few steps from the square, the French Institute will present a rich program full of creative activities for children and young people. The event will also feature an outdoor summer movie theater screening the popular animated film *Ratatouille*.

The free cultural program, presented in both Slovak and French, will be hosted by actress Lucia Hurajová. The Joris Yacoub Dance Company will create an unforgettable atmosphere by getting the entire square dancing, and talented participants in the “I Sing in French” competition will also perform.

The highlight of the evening will be a concert by the band Bonne Nuit (8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.), which will perform energetic, original pop songs and bring the celebrations to a grand close.

The event is held under the patronage of Matúš Vallo, Mayor of Bratislava, the capital of the Slovak Republic, and Matej Vagač, Mayor of the Bratislava-Staré Mesto district.

PROGRAM

3:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. – Open Day at IFS

2:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. – French Village

3:30 p.m. – Welcoming the public

4:00 p.m. – 4:20 p.m. – I sing in French

5:00 p.m. – Learn French, it will be your plus!

5:15 p.m. – 7:15 p.m. – Open-air screening of Ratatouille

7:30 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. – Dance performance by Joris Yacoub

8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. – Concert by the French group Bonne Nuit

Joris Yacoub

Joris Yacoub is a passionate Latin dancer and an active member of the RDS Bratislava art scene. He specializes in Latin American dances such as salsa, bachata and reggaeton and spreads the energy, warmth and cultural richness of Latin America with his movements. Charismatic and generous, Joris shares his love of dance during performances and workshops open to all, where a friendly atmosphere, passion and rhythm reign.

I sing in French

The winners of the French singing competition “I sing in French” will sing songs in French.

Open-air summer cinema

We also invite you to the screening of the film Ratatouille during French Day, which will make both young and old laugh. The film starts at 5:15 p.m. on the Main Square.

Admission to the entire event is free.

Location: Main Square, 811 01 Bratislava
Date: Monday, July 13, 2026
Start: 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Admission: free

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