Bastille Day Festival 2026

If you are looking for another reason to don your Red, White and Blue, get in on the festivities...

After 14 years of continued success, Bastille Day Festival Reading is rolling out its plans for yet another weekend of fun, relaxation and laughter staged in the Forbury Gardens.

Enjoy authentic French food and drink, live entertainment, traditional crafts, historical displays and even a guillotine, as French culture and heritage take centre stage in the heart of Reading. 

From freshly baked pastries, artisan cheeses and fine wines to battle re-enactments and weapons demonstrations, there's plenty to see, taste and discover. Meet costumed re-enactors, learn about life during the French Revolution and soak up the lively atmosphere with music, performances and family-friendly activities throughout the weekend. 

Our sole purpose is to entertain you and your family while bringing people of all cultural backgrounds together around a French-themed festival. Big thank you to Abbey Quarter Business District as our biggest sponsor this year and Reading Borough Council for supporting us year after year.