Festival of Lights (Lyon)

The Festival of Lights (French: Fête des lumières, ) in Lyon, France, is a joyful celebration that happens each year around December 8. It began as a way to show thankfulness to Mary, mother of Jesus. During this special time, people in Lyon put candles in their windows, making the streets look magical with bright lights.

The festival is filled with fun activities all about light, and it usually lasts for four days. The most exciting part is on the 8th, when everyone gathers to see beautiful light shows. Two important places to visit are the Basilica of Fourvière, which glows in many colors, and Place des Terreaux, where a new light display happens every year. This festival brings families and friends together to enjoy the beauty of light and the spirit of community.

History

The Festival of Lights in Lyon, France, began in 1643 when the city faced a serious sickness called the plague. The leaders of Lyon promised to honor Mary, the mother of Jesus, if the city was saved. Since then, people in Lyon light candles in their windows on December 8 each year to remember this promise and to show thanks.

In 1852, a statue of Mary was built near a important church in Lyon. This statue became a special part of the festival. Because of bad weather and other problems, the celebration was moved to December 8. On that day, even with storms, people lit their windows and celebrated together, singing and showing their joy. This tradition has continued every year since then.

Custom

In Lyon, France, the Festival of Lights is a wonderful celebration that happens every year around December 8. Many families place special candles in their windows to create a beautiful glow throughout the city. You can find these candles in shops starting in late November.

During the festival, certain parts of the city are closed to cars so people can walk safely and enjoy the lights. The festival includes exciting light shows, performances, and places to buy tasty food. Each year, about 3 to 4 million people come to see the magical lights.

Main article: Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Security measures after 13 November 2015

In 2015, after some sad events in Paris, the Festival of Lights in Lyon had to change its plans. The festival was shorter and had extra safety checks to keep everyone secure. Special lights were used to honor those affected by the events in Paris.