Canceled a year ago, the Festival of Lights will again take place in Lyon from December 8 to 10.
If in 1643 the people of Lyon had known what a spectacular and large-scale festival their holiday would mark the beginning of, they would probably have been very surprised. However, then there was a significant reason for fun – local residents staged illuminations throughout the city in honor of the Virgin Mary, whose intercession, they believed, saved Lyon from the plague epidemic. The celebration took place on December 8th. And even though the modern festival is far from religious, the strong metaphor laid down in the 17th century can still be read today: on the darkest and longest nights of the year, light helps people get rid of fears, misfortunes and adversity. It is not without reason that several million tourists come to Lyon every year to see the Fête des lumières.
There is something to see. More than 70 light installations created by the world’s best artists especially for the Fête des lumières – they can only be seen here and during these three days. Fancy light projections on the walls of ancient quarters, lanterns and garlands on narrow streets and wide avenues, laser shows in squares and amazing multimedia art objects in cozy courtyards, squares and parks – the Lyon festival, unlike other similar events, is a truly city-wide event. Local residents also light candles in their homes and offices in the evenings to create a special holiday atmosphere. The main sites will be the historical Presqu’ile district, the old town and the square in front of Fourvière Cathedral. The festival website allows you not only to study descriptions of upcoming installations, but also to plot a route (calculating the distance and required time to overcome it),
to see as much as possible.
Last year, due to the tragic events in Paris, the Lyon Fête des lumières was cancelled. This year they decided to hold the holiday, but with a number of restrictions. The festival will take place over three days, not four as before. And the illumination itself will be on from 20.00 until midnight. To enter and exit the festival sites, you will need to go through a security check similar to security in the fan zones of football stadiums. Car traffic and parking will be prohibited in the event area. But public transport will operate free of charge. Entry to the event will also be free.
