From the traditional lumignons (small candles) lighting up Lyon’s balconies, to the various visual and interactive shows that are put on around the city, the early days of December are an absolute must for anybody looking to discover one of France's most fascinating cities.
Held annually for the past 30 years, Lyon’s Fête des Lumières, or Festival of Lights sees the creative city consumed by an array of light displays and vivid colours to celebrate the best talent in visual artistry.
Over four nights, millions of visitors will descend upon the city to see over 50 installations by different designers illuminate buildings, streets, squares, and parks.
If you’re keen to join the crowd, here’s a breakdown of everything you should know to witness the winter festival.
Lyon’s Fête des Lumières is Free
Make no mistake about it: Lyon’s Festival of Lights is free to attend and open to all. All you need to bring is a warm jacket and your passion for art.
Grab a Velo’v, the bike-sharing system run by the city, and head to one of Lyon’s galleries and museums that put on an annual show during the Festival of Lights to entice visitors.
Religion Reinvented
The tradition started in 1852 when the city’s residents spontaneously lit candles in a gesture of solidarity on December 8 after the official ceremony to inaugurate a Virgin Mary statue on Fourvière Hill had to be cancelled. The tradition endured but evolved when shops started to compete to put on the best light show, and the event has been growing ever since.
The festival originally started as a religious festival and, even today, it honours the spirit of community and giving back, with a different charitable organisation selected to participate each year.
Visitors are encouraged to purchase a traditional lumignon throughout the four days. On the final day, all are set alight at the ancient Odeon of Fourvière and all the money raised from the sales is donated to the chosen charity.
Don’t Miss The Christmas Market At Place Carnot
Given that the festival is in December, it only makes sense to visit the Christmas Market at Place Carnot. Discover artisan crafts, grab some roast chestnuts and mulled wine or head to one of the pop-up events that have featured foie gras, candle-customising classes and Michelin-starred food workshops, all during Lyon’s Festival of Lights.
Read more about the Christmas markets in Europe in our dedicated guide.
Permanent Installations
Among the permanent collections, one not to miss is “Thank you, Monsieur Paul”. The display was added to the city in 2015 to pay tribute to a famous son: Paul Bocuse, the famous chef.
The monumental mural is installed opposite the entrance to Les Halles, Lyon’s food market which also bears his name. At night, videos and lights bring the fresco to life, lasting ten minutes to showcase the highlights of his career as the world’s best-known Michelin-starred chef.
If you are curious to taste unique local specialities, check out our guide to Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes's gastronomy.
Music Events
Tease another one of the senses with Lyon’s impressive music scene. Almost working intrinsically, Lyon puts every effort into making sure there are plenty of musical events around the city during the Festival of Lights, all with a fantastic atmosphere. Enjoy classical music performances by the National Orchestra of Lyon at the Lyon Auditorium. If that’s not to your taste, dive into some heavy metal at the ‘Rock n Eat’ bar or hit up Le Petit Salon Club to dance the night away.
Recommended Routes To Take For Fête des Lumières
We recommend several routes during Lyon’s Festival of Lights that allow visitors to see the best displays peppered about the city. One route sets off from Place Antonin Poncet on the banks of the Rhône and sees visitors make their way towards Place Bellecour to arrive at the illuminated Ferris wheel to see the city-wide light show from the best seat in the house.
Ride on Bellecour’s wheel where you can see for miles over Lyon’s peninsula. Spot famous landmarks across the city, like Croix Rousse Hill and the Rue de la République and watch as the sunset and the lights illuminate the sky.
Next, head for Place des Célestins where the theatre is always a source of inspiration for lighting designers, as well as the fountain at Place des Jacobins.
On the final night, you’re better off walking along Rue de la République to take in displays at the Opera House and Place Louis Pradel, followed by the Hôtel de Ville. From here, walk to the Musée des Beaux-arts, onwards to La Martinière and then onto Place Sathonay where the lighting of the fresco of the Lumignons du Cœur will take place.
Keen to see the city’s famous light show? Check out other things to do in Lyon.