Beginning on Friday, Lyon plays host to over 70 light installations, creating a magical seasonal atmosphere along six routes throughout the city.
The first Fête des Lumières was held in the city in 1852, when a statue of the Virgin Mary was erected at the top of the Fourvière hill (formerly the site of Trajan’s forum). However, since 1643, the people of Lyon have been placing candles in their windows, and holding candlelit processions through the city and up to the top of the hill in order to give thanks on December 8th (Immaculate Conception Day) to the Virgin Mary for saving them from the cholera epidemic, which swept across Europe. In 1872, building began on the Basilica of Fourvière at the top of the hill, finishing in 1884.
These days, over three million people from all over the world visit Lyon for what has now become a four-night spectacular of illuminations decorating streets, squares, buildings, and parks across the city.
For full details of Lyon’s festival of lights, and a downloadable event program, please visit the official website.
What: Fête des Lumières, Lyon
When: Friday 5th – Monday 8th December
Public transport:
- 5th-6th December – the Métro will run until 1am, with bus and tram lines operating later than usual to allow people to get their connections.
- 7th-8th December – TCL services as normal
Cost:
- 5th-7th December – the TCL en Fête ticket costs €2.80 per evening, and covers all transport throughout the city
- 8th December – all public transport is free from 4pm