Festival of Lights Lyon 2024

Come and see illuminated Lyon at the centuries-old lights festival!

The Fête des Lumières traces its origins back to 1643, during the dark days of the plague in Europe. The people of Lyon vowed to honor the Virgin Mary if she protected their city from the plague. Remarkably, Lyon remained free from the plague for the next 150 years! In gratitude, a golden statue of Mary was eventually erected atop Fourvière Hill.

The Festival of Lights has been a way to thank the Virgin Mary since December 8, 1852. That day, it was supposed to rain heavily, which could have ruined the big light display for the new statue of Mary. So, people spontaneously lit small candles called lumignons on their windowsills instead. Luckily, the rain stopped by the evening. This quick thinking started a yearly tradition, and now the city lights up beautifully every year.

The tradition was kept, only the light candles became bigger and bigger! Today, the Festival of Lights is the most awaited event in France, drawing millions of visitors from around the world!

Fête des Lumières 2024 takes place in the city center of Lyon, with light installations at the Place des Terreaux, the Place Bellecour, the Place des Jacobins, the Saint-Jean Cathedral, in the Vieux-Lyon and also the Parc de la Tête d'Or.

Discover the Lyon Light Festival this year! The popular event is scheduled for December 5 to December 8. You have plenty of time to plan your trip to France!

What to Expect When Attending Festival of Lights Lyon 2024

Expect to see the city come alive with a festive vibe, with the streets filled with locals and tourists!

You'll spend evenings wandering the streets, amazed by many light installations. Projections will be set on historic buildings, sculptures, and major landmarks like the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and Place des Terreaux. What adds to this enchanting atmosphere is the fact that locals still put small lanterns on their windows, following their tradition.

These festivities are filled with music, street performances, and other entertainment options. While you enjoy the beauty of the nights at the Lyon Festival of Lights, you can warm up with a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine. Also, many local vendors will offer yummy treats!

Every year, there’s also a lantern procession that begins on the square in front of Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral around 6:30 p.m. People carry small lanterns up the hill to Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica. 

You can expect cold winter weather, with average daytime temperatures hovering around 7°C (44.8°F) and nighttime temperatures dropping to about 1.6°C (34.9°F). Dress in layers to stay comfortable at this fantastic celebration!

The event is free to attend!

Security Protocols

• Security personnel will check bags at entry points and ensure everyone's safety.
• CCTV cameras will monitor all activities at key locations.
• First-aid stations will be placed throughout the city to provide medical assistance if needed.
• Prohibited items include drones, large bags, and dangerous objects.

How to Get To or From the Event

Lyon's public transport system is run by TCL (Transports en Commun Lyonnais), and special services are often provided for the festival:

• Metro: Lines A, B, C, and D will take you to significant stations like Bellecour, Hôtel de Ville, and Vieux Lyon. From there, you can easily reach the event.
• Tram: T1, T2, and T3 run to the stations near the venues.
• Bus: Routes C3 and C2 will take you to transport hubs like Part-Dieu and Perrache.

Check the TCL website for the schedules and the best route based on your location.

Festival of Lights Lyon 2024 Bag Policy

Keep in mind that large bags aren't allowed at the venues.

It's best to bring only essentials since the event doesn't provide an area for storing your luggage. If you're wondering what to do with your belongings, Bounce has a convenient solution!

We partner with local businesses worldwide to find secure and convenient locations to store your bags. You can contact us on our official Bounce website or our app.

Festival of Lights Lyon 2024 Bag Storage

Store Your Bags With Bounce and Spend Four Wonderful Nights in the City of Lyon

A Bounce partner will take care of your bags!

Bounce partners with local businesses, with 13,000 locations for storing your luggage in more than 2000 cities, including Lyon.

A Bounce partner will assist in finding the storage place at the chosen location.

Explore Lyon and find a desirable location for you. After contacting Bounce partner online, consider everything done! The price is just €3.00 per day, and there is no cancellation fee if you can't make it! We also offer 24/7 support for anything you need.

How to Stow Your Bag at Festival of Lights Lyon 2024 With Bounce

• Book: Choose the location, contact a Bounce partner, and pay online.
• Go to the location: Arrive at the location, show the confirmation, and store your belongings.
• Have fun at the Festival of Lights: Go to the city centre and enjoy!

How to Make the Most Out of the Festival of Lights Lyon 2024

• Enjoy the tradition: Keep the story of the origin of Lyon's festival in mind. The Fête des Lumières started as a religious celebration, with locals placing candles in their windows. When walking through quieter neighborhoods, you may still see this beautiful tradition.
• Capture the moment: Bring your camera or smartphone and take amazing photos of installations and lumignons!
• Enjoy food and drinks: Take a relaxing break and enjoy local food. After that, you can drink hot chocolate or mulled wine to stay warm.

Visit this sparkling French town while Bounce takes care of your belongings! Enjoy four days full of light and joy!