Beginning Thursday, July 13, Bastille Days will celebrate 25 years as one of the nation's largest French-themed festivals.

Since 1981, downtown Milwaukee's Cathedral Square Park has transformed into a Parisian playground celebrating the famous French joie de vivre through an eclectic mix of live music, daily chef and wine demonstrations, and local fare from some of the area's best restaurants. This year's special celebration combines past favorites as well as exciting new additions. As always, the festival is free, open to the public and proceeds directly support the East Town neighborhood.

New this year, the musical lineup will focus on Milwaukee's vibrant and diverse music scene. Also, Jefferson Street will feature a new French cafe for Parisian-style dining. Fest-goers can anticipate the return of favorites such as the spectacular 43-foot Eiffel Tower, the waiter/waitress race, and a traditional French mass at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist.

Festival hours are Thursday, July 13 through Saturday, July15, 11 a.m. to midnight, and Sunday, July 16, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.