Fête des Lumières

Four nights of free light installations across Lyon, from 5 to 8 December 2026.

For four nights each December, Lyon turns its squares, churches and riverbanks into a free trail of light art. The 2026 Fête des Lumières runs from Saturday 5 to Tuesday 8 December, 19:00 to 23:00, except Sunday 6 December, when it runs 18:00 to 22:00. It grew out of the tradition of 8 December, when Lyon families set small candles called lumignons on their windowsills in honour of the Virgin Mary, and you will still see them across the city on the last night. Crowds are huge, especially on Saturday, so travel in by metro, walk, and choose two or three areas rather than trying to see everything. The Parc de la Tête d'Or has its own limited-access hours. Book a hotel months ahead, or stay outside the city and come in by train.