Sometimes you don’t have to take a plane to get to France — all you have to do is walk. This Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wisconsin Avenue between P Street and Reservoir Road will transform into a Parisian neighborhood, complete with a European-style open market. The 9th Annual Georgetown French Market will offer a range of activities to suit the diverse interests of the Georgetown community as well as aim to stimulate local businesses in the Book Hill area.
Sponsored by the Georgetown Business Improvement District, they have gathered eight new merchants, growing to a total of more than 35 merchants. “What’s unique about the Georgetown French Market is that nearly 100 percent of the featured merchants are independently-owned, local businesses,” Debbie Young, marketing manager of theGID, said. “They came together to create the event on their own, and it’s great to participate in an occasion hosted by a small community of business owners that deeply care about each other and their customers.”
Because of this desire to serve the community, this weekend’s event features not only heavy discounts at sidewalk sales for boutiques, like Urban Chic and duo, and art galleries, but also French-style entertainment like mimes, stilt walkers and live music.
Of course, food is a central part of the French cultural experience and therefore a keystone feature of the Georgetown French Market. They’ll be serving up a variety of authentic dishes, from Frenchmerguez sausages to savory crepes and delicious French pastries. Several local restaurants will also be featured, including those that serve French cuisine, such as Café Bonaparte and Patisserie Poupon, and some traditional American favorites, like Clyde’s and Bookhill Bistro.
In addition, on Saturday visitors can enjoy the rare opportunity to tour some of the most high-end and exquisite homes in the area. The 81st Georgetown House Tour will feature eight to 10 of the most beautiful homes and gardens in Georgetown.
With an event that truly offers visitors a taste of the D.C. lifestyle, the 9th Annual Georgetown French Market is a great way to spend your weekend not physically far from campus but a world away.
