Just as Americans celebrated the 4th of July, Francophiles will also be honoring their independence day this month. July 14 is the celebration of the fall of Bastille fortress and prison in Paris, marking the end of rule by the oppressive French monarchy in 1789. In the states the holiday has turned into a celebration of all things French. French revelers will find these events magnifique.

Alliance Francaise Summer Soiree (715 S. Forest St.; 720-865-0800)
As it says on their website, the Alliance is the center for all things French in the Rocky Mountain Region. At the Alliance Denverites can learn the language as well as the culture and arts of this historic country. They celebrate Bastille Day in fine fashion with French food and wine from Denver’s finest restaurants and bakeries as well as music, dancing and games of boules hosted by the Mile High Petanque Club. The event will be held on Saturday, July 19, from 5:30-9 PM at Four Mile Historic Park and attire is outdoor garden party. Advance tickets are $60 for members and $70 for non-members.

Le Central (122 E. 8th Ave.; 303-863-8094)
This local French restaurant will host a Bastille Day prix fixe menu on Sunday, July 14. Served from 5-9 PM the menu includes grilled lamb chops or roasted lobster. For dessert the restaurants offers a choice of puff pastry with strawberries and cream or “let them eat cake” Baba au Rhum Rum with summer berries and vanilla ice cream. The regular menu will also be available. Featured wines include Le Blanc Lime (sauvignon blanc), Le Kir (chardonnay) and 2005 Banyuls (red). Other drinks include French sangria, the French Kiss with Brute champagne and the French Martini with Chambord raspberry liqueur. Cost for the Bastille Day pre fixe menu is $33 per person.