Why Thomas Keller is canceling Bastille Day celebration

To the Yountville Community

Unfortunately, after 24 years of celebrating Bastille Day on the Bouchon and Edward James Courtyard properties, we will no longer be hosting this local and momentous special event. This decision didn’t come lightly due to multiple challenges with the city’s growing protocols and rising costs driven by the imposed requirements. Additionally, the new compliance outline enforced by the Napa Valley Health Department last year significantly increased expenses to a level that made it unsustainable for us to continue with the event’s execution. 

This annual and public special event has long drawn guests from Yountville, the Napa Valley, and across the country. It has supported local beverage, floral, music, decor and rental vendors and contributed to the veteran and community relations for over a decade. The impact of the event each summer was tremendous, drawing a large-scale, family-friendly event that the community could be a part of and be proud of. While we can’t make up for the disappointment and time lost this year, I would like to revisit how this event can be brought back to life in 2026. I think if we can collaborate and troubleshoot with the community, chamber and local officials as to the parameters surrounding the event, we can achieve success with ease and even greater fortitude for the celebration and city of Yountville. 

Sincerely, 
Thomas Keller

---

Sponsored

---