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What to do in Lyon in December?

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Last updated date : 07/12/2023

December is the month when Lyon shines brightest, with the ‘Fête des Lumières’ (Festival of Lights)! In addition to this huge Lyonnais event, there are many ideas for things to see and do in December, including shows, Christmas markets, exhibitions and more…  To your diaries!

Fête des Lumières 2021"Le lapin dans la Lune" place des Terreaux © Brice Robert

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The Festival of Lights

In Lyon, December begins in dazzling fashion with the ‘Fête des Lumières’ (Festival of Lights)!

Millions of French and foreign visitors will enjoy the friendly and joyful spirit of this unique event.
Save the date! Lyon meets up with light!
Lighters, designers, videographers, architects, graphic artists, plastic artists, but also street shows companies, make the city a showcase of their ephemeral works with their new and surprising installations.

Practical information

Address

Lieux divers - 69002 Lyon 2ème

Languages

French

Prices

Free access.

Openings

From Thursday 5 to Sunday 8 December 2024.

Christmas Markets in Lyon

Christmas is around the corner! What better way to get into the festive spirit than to explore the metropolitan area’s Christmas markets? In addition to the well-known ‘Marché de Noël’ on Place Carnot, many other markets are held throughout the month, offering chances to drink mulled wine, buy gifts and maybe meet Father Christmas himself…

End-of-year shows in Lyon

Christmas is also an opportunity to enjoy the festive programmes of Lyon’s show venues. Music, theatre, dance, circus, humour… shows for both adults and children that are not to be missed.

Christmas holidays with children

How to keep your excited children busy until Christmas during the school holidays? In addition to the Christmas markets and magnificent end-of-year shows, there are plenty of ideas for days out to keep your kids busy: take them to some of the exhibitions that you haven’t had time to see yet, see classic animated films on the big screen at the Institut Lumière, take a ride on the big wheel on Place Bellecour…