Festival of Lights
December 8, Monday
Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes
When it is held
The festival usually lasts four days around December 8. During this time, the entire city transforms into a huge open-air stage where architects, artists, and lighting designers create impressive installations.
How it is celebrated
During the Festival of Lights, the city is filled with an atmosphere of creativity and vibrant emotions. The main forms of celebration include:
* light installations on buildings, in parks, and on squares
* projection shows on historical sites
* artistic light routes walked by thousands of residents and tourists
* the tradition of Lyon residents placing candles on windowsills
* street performances by artists and musicians in the city center
Main venues
* Place Bellecour — one of the central squares with large-scale installations
* Saint-Jean Cathedral — location of the most famous projection shows
* Fourvière Hill — symbolic center of the festival
* Old Lyon — district with atmospheric light projects and a festive aura
Significance of the festival
The Festival of Lights has become a hallmark of Lyon and a symbol of gratitude to the Virgin Mary, but over time it has transformed into an international cultural event. Today it combines art, technology, history, and tradition, attracting millions of visitors from around the world.
Interesting facts
* The Festival of Lights is considered the largest light festival in Europe.
* Many modern installations are created specifically for Lyon and are not repeated in other cities.
* The streets of the city center become pedestrian-only during the festival, and transport operates on a special schedule.
Festival of Lights in other years
- 2021 December 8, Wednesday
- 2022 December 8, Thursday
- 2023 December 8, Friday
- 2024 December 8, Sunday
- 2026 December 8, Tuesday