10 Best Lyon Festivals:  Fun for Everyone!

Lyon, France is known for its incredible food, art, and history.  And it also hosts some pretty amazing festivals!

I’ve visited Lyon several times, and there is always plenty to do.  But if you plan your visit to line up with some of the best Lyon festivals, your trip will be even more memorable!

Two of Lyon’s most popular celebrations are the Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights) and the summertime music festival, Les Nuits de Fourvière.

But did you know that Lyon also has an incredible street food festival, a crime fiction festival, and a comic book festival (and more)?  There is definitely something for everyone!

Let’s dive right into the 10 best festivals in Lyon, France!

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1. Fête des Lumières

Every December, Lyon transforms into a magical city of lights during the Fête des Lumières. The Festival of Lights is one of the city’s most anticipated annual events and is a great reason to visit Lyon.

It’s a magical experience to see the city’s buildings illuminated with stunning light displays. Artists from around the world create installations that light up the streets, transforming familiar places into works of art.

As you walk through Lyon, you’ll discover various performances and activities. Street performers and musicians add to the enchanting atmosphere.

You’ll love the mesmerizing light shows at famous Lyon landmarks like the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral and the Place des Terreaux. These displays combine light, color, and sound in an unforgettable experience.

Join the crowds at Place Bellecour, where a giant Ferris wheel offers panoramic views of the illuminated city. Grab a hot drink from one of the many stalls and enjoy local treats while wandering the festive streets.

The festival typically runs for four days (around December 8^th), so you have plenty of time to take in the sights. Dress warmly, as the evenings can be quite chilly.

The Fête des Lumières is definitely one of the most popular celebrations in Lyon.  And as the cherry on top, it’s free!

2. Les Nuits de Fourvière

Les Nuits de Fourvière is a summer music and performing arts festival held in Lyon through the months of June and July.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the ancient Roman amphitheater in Vieux Lyon, the Fourvière Nights festival features a surprisingly diverse lineup of artists from various genres. 

The schedule includes concerts, theater performances, circus acts, and more.  There’s something for everyone!

Watching a performance under the stars in Lyon’s Roman theater makes for an unforgettable experience. It’s the perfect summer evening entertainment or even a romantic date night. 

(Tip:  Bring along a cushion – the stone seats of the ancient amphitheater aren’t exactly the most comfortable!)

Tickets for popular shows can sell out quickly, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead and book in advance. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this memorable event while visiting Lyon!

Want to stay close to the amphitheater during the festival?  Book a room at Villa Maia (it’s one of the best 5-star hotels in Lyon!)

3. Lyon Street Food Festival

The Lyon Street Food Festival is a must-visit for food lovers.  Held over 4 days in June, it’s THE place to enjoy mouth-watering dishes from some of the best chefs in Lyon.

(It’s not often that you can spend just a few euros and get to sample an amazing dish prepared by a Michelin chef!)

Famous chefs and rising stars in the culinary scene will delight your taste buds with traditional Lyon foods and international cuisine. The festival features stalls, food trucks, and live cooking shows.

With live music performances and interactive workshops, this is a great event to attend with friends and family.

Don’t forget to leave room for dessert (my favorite part of every meal!). The ‘Sugar Circus’ zone offers treats like decadent pastries and chocolate confections, designed to satisfy your sweet tooth. It’s the perfect way to end your culinary adventure at the festival.

So, skip breakfast and wear your stretchy pants!  The Lyon Food Festival promises a delightful experience for your taste buds.  Bon Appetit!

Tip:  You can get free admission to the Lyon Street Food Festival when you buy a Lyon City Card.  You will still need to pay for your samples, though!

(Need more info?  Read my full review of the Lyon City Card.)

4. Quais du Polar

Quais du Polar is the place to be if you love crime fiction. Every April, this annual festival turns Lyon into a hub for mystery and thriller lovers.

It’s an opportunity for fans to meet famous authors from around the world (John Grisham attended the 2024 festival).  

Film screenings and book signings allow you to engage directly with creators and other fans. You can also attend intriguing panel discussions and participate in fun interactive events.

Don’t miss the special detective trails, which take you on a scavenger hunt through the city. Or take a unique Lyon river cruise or city tour created for the Quais du Polar and inspired by fiction!

Quais du Polar is an unmissable event for anyone with a passion for crime stories and a sense of adventure!

5. Lumière Film Festival

The Lumière Festival celebrates the rich history of cinema in Lyon.  Lyon is the birthplace of Auguste and Louis Lumière and is considered the birthplace of cinematography.

Attend screenings of classic films and retrospectives on legendary filmmakers. This event attracts movie lovers from around the world.

Beyond the films, enjoy engaging discussions, workshops, and special guests that make the festival a unique experience.

Each October, the Lumière Film Festival transforms Lyon into a mecca for cinema lovers. With screenings held in various iconic locations, the atmosphere is unforgettable.

The festival’s highlight is the awarding of the Prix Lumière to an actor or director in recognition of their contributions to the film industry.  Previous winners have included Martin Scorsese, Clint Eastwood, and Catherine Deneuve.

Whether you’re a serious film buff or just curious about film history, this festival offers an entertaining and enriching experience.

And while you’re in the city, be sure to visit the Musée Lumière – it’s one of the best museums in Lyon!

6. Nuits Sonores

Nuits Sonores is one of France’s most popular electronic music festivals. Held annually over the Ascension Day holiday weekend in May, this event showcases talent from around the globe.

Performances take place in venues across the city, from industrial spaces to open-air stages. There’s even a ‘MiniSonore’ geared towards kids.

At the Nuits Sonores, enjoy an incredible lineup of artists across multiple electronic genres. Whether you prefer techno, house, or experimental sounds, there’s something for every electronic music lover.

In addition to music, the festival also includes workshops, exhibitions, and talks.  And don’t miss the chance to join in on fun (and a little bit wacky) activities like world musical chair championships!  

This is an amazing opportunity to see both emerging artists and renowned DJs. The energetic atmosphere and innovative music make Nuits Sonores a must-visit festival in Lyon.

7.  Peinture Fraîche Festival

The Peinture Fraîche Festival is a unique celebration of street art that brings together artists and enthusiasts.  With so many stunning murals in Lyon, it’s the perfect location to host this festival!

Held annually starting in mid-October, this festival showcases live painting demonstrations, workshops, and exhibitions from local and international artists.

Experience a colorful array of murals and graffiti art that transform and beautify the city’s urban landscape. The event provides a platform for artists to express their creativity and engage with the community.

Interactive installations invite you to participate in the artistic process (even if your artistic skills are at the ‘stick figure’ level, like mine).

Lyon’s Festival Peinture Fraiche is the perfect event for street art fans and artists!

(Fun Fact: The street art ‘Soleil’ pictured above was created for the festival by INTI, a street artist from Chile.)

8. Biennale de Lyon

The Biennale de Lyon is two festivals celebrating the arts, which are held in alternating years.

On one side, you have the Lyon Contemporary Art Biennial.  This incredible event draws art lovers from around the globe and showcases work from both emerging and established artists.

Explore a variety of innovative art installations in venues such as macLYON, Lyon’s contemporary art museum.  You’ll find a mix of sculptures, paintings, and multimedia exhibits, as well as performances and workshops.

During the alternating years, enjoy the Lyon Dance Biennial.  This joyous festival brings contemporary dance to the venues of the greater Lyon area.

One of the festival’s highlights is the parade through Lyon – everyone is invited to the dance party!  Or join in the fun with a dance class in the iconic Place des Terreaux.

Both versions of the Biennale de Lyon bring a vibrant and creative energy to the city!

Tip:  You can get free admission to the Biennial of Contemporary Art when you buy a Lyon City Card.  

(Need more info?  Read my full review of the Lyon City Card.)

9. Lyon BD Festival

Every June, Lyon transforms into a hub for comic book enthusiasts during the Lyon BD Festival.  (BD stands for bande dessinée, the French term for comics.)

An impressive lineup of comic artists from around the world gather to share their work and passion. Expect lively discussions, workshops, and live drawing sessions.

Don’t miss the exhibitions and panel talks (maybe featuring your favorite comic book creators!).

Festival activities are tailored for different age groups. Kids can join in fun comic-making workshops, while adults can immerse themselves in more in-depth sessions.

Lyon’s Bande Dessinée Festival is a lot of fun. It’s a great way to experience the creative energy that comics bring to life and is a must if you’re a comic lover.

(With the comic book festival, the street food festival, and Fourviere Nights – June is one of the best times to visit Lyon!)

10. Jazz à Vienne

Jazz à Vienne is a must-attend event for jazz enthusiasts. Held in the picturesque town of Vienne (just a short drive from Lyon), the festival offers a blend of jazz, blues, and world music.

The unique setting of Vienne’s ancient Roman Theatre provides a breathtaking backdrop for world-class musicians. 

Every year, the festival lineup features an eclectic mix of international and local talent, with a whopping 1000 musicians!  Whether you’re a fan of classic jazz or prefer modern interpretations, you’re sure to find plenty to love.

Aside from the main performances, you can enjoy various workshops, masterclasses, and jam sessions. These experiences make it easy to immerse yourself in the vibrant jazz culture.

The Vienne Jazz Festival is generally held at the end of June through mid-July and is a great reason to visit France!

While you’re here, be sure to explore the charming town of Vienne. It’s filled with amazing Roman ruins.  Don’t miss the archaeological museum – I loved their fabulous murals.

Festivals in Lyon, France FAQ

Final Thoughts:

With so many great festivals held in Lyon, there have never been more reasons to visit this amazing French city!

While you’re in Lyon, you should take full advantage of all that the city has to offer!  Enjoy Lyon’s famed gastronomy, explore the traboules in historic Vieux Lyon, and visit the gorgeous Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica!

Here are some posts to help you make the most of your trip to Lyon:

• Best Things to Do in Lyon
• Top Lyon food tours
• The Ultimate Guide to Vieux Lyon
• How to save money with the Lyon City Card
• How to Get from Paris to Lyon

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