France's national day lands in Central Park as a free five-hour concert, headlined by a genuinely rare stateside appearance from 'L'Amiral' Michel Polnareff alongside Laurent Voulzy, French rap star Black M and an 80s-hits revue. It's the Consulate's official Bastille Day bash, so expect a huge expat crowd singing every word en français. If you want the weekend's most transporting free show, this is it — Paris on the Rumsey Playfield lawn.
What to expect
A festival-scale open-air lineup running from golden hour into the night, with generations of French pop — tender chanson, stadium rap and synth-era singalongs — sharing one stage. Enter at 72nd Street and Fifth Avenue and expect a packed, flag-waving, picnic-blanket crowd.
Good to know
- Free and open to the public — no ticket needed, but the lawn fills early for big headliners
- Enter Central Park at 72nd Street and Fifth Avenue for Rumsey Playfield
- B/C trains to 72nd St or the 6 to 68th St–Hunter College both work
- Standing and lawn seating — bring a blanket; chairs are usually restricted up front
- Great for francophiles and families alike; the 80s revue keeps it light between headliners
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Common questions
Do I need tickets for the Bastille Day concert at SummerStage?
No — it's free and open to the public on a first-come basis. Arrive early for a spot near the stage; capacity is managed at the gate once the venue fills.
Who is performing at the 2026 Bastille Day concert in Central Park?
Michel Polnareff in a rare U.S. appearance, Laurent Voulzy, French rapper Black M, and the Legends of the 80s revue, presented by the Consulate General of France with SummerStage.
