Experience Lyon: the ultimate guide to seasonal events…

The Ultimate Guide to the Lyon seasonal events is a ‘must-read’ in order to really appreciate it all! Springtime in Paris is famous, but what about Lyon? It’s not necessarily an easy choicebetween blue summer skies and the magical Fête de Lumières in December.

We’ve reached into our archives and uncovered some fabulous content to help you decide when to visit Lyon. Read on to discover some exciting seasonal events. You just may find yourself wanting to experience it all!

Seasonal events in Lyon: what to do in winter

‘MyFrenchLife™ ‘MyFrenchLife™ - seasonal events in Lyon - terreaux

Although the autumn colours of Parc de la Tête d’Or are now a distant memory with the cold weather steadily creeping in, there is still plenty to do during winter in Lyon. Here are our recommendations of what to do to get the most out of Lyon this hiver!

What to do in winter in Lyon: La biennale d’art contemporain de Lyon

Take shelter this winter in Lyon’s most iconic modern spaces and explore ‘La vie moderne, an exhibition showing the work of 60 artists from 28 different countries. Have a wander and take in the intriguing portrayals of our modern world…Read more

What to do in winter in Lyon: ‘Fête des Lumières’ à Lyon

Want to discover France? Apart from the pricey and not necessarily welcoming Paris, other French cities also enjoy an international reputation. This is the case for the city of Lyon and its famous ‘Fête des Lumières’ (Festival of Lights) or ‘Illuminations’.

Each year the city lights up its streets on 8 December. In 2010, more than three million tourists came to admire this spectacle.

The Festival of Lights was originally a religious celebration in honour of the Blessed Virgin.

It all started in 1643. Southern France is hit by the plague that spreads northward. In their infinite wisdom, the senior officers of the city of Lyon promise Mary they will honour her every year if their city is spared…Read more

Seasonal events in Lyon: what to do in spring

It’s the end of a strange and unruly winter and the start of something very exciting: spring in Lyon combines the best of all seasons. Even though it’s time to start shedding some of the layers, you can still enjoy the wonders of winter with plenty to do indoors and out this Spring in Lyon.

What to do in spring in Lyon: tear up the slopes

Ski resorts are open until the end of April. With a disappointing amount of snow before Christmas, now is the time to make the most of the winter that lingers…Read more

Only twice a year: guide to summer & winter sales in Lyon

‘MyFrenchLife™ ‘MyFrenchLife™ - seasonal events in Lyon - part dieu

Les Soldes, Soldes, Soldes! Quelques petits conseils on where to find Lyon’s best bargains.

When finding fashion in France at a petit prix there are two pieces of information every savvy shopper should know.
– The French sales are fantastic, and 
their dates are quite rigid.

For those who pick their timing and know where to look, there are some brilliant bargains to be found.

Lyon is a great place to avoid large crowds and still find a good range.

Here are a few tips to ensure your shopping experience comes out on top, and this list is not only fashion-related…Read more

And finally, no matter what the season – Go here and scroll down to find what’s on in Lyon now and what’s coming soon.


What do you think is the best season to visit Lyon and why? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below 


Images credits:
1. Que cette nouvelle semaine qui débute soit comme ce panorama lyonnais via @onlylyon on Instagram
2. Let’s play hide and seek in Lyon via @onlylyon on Instagram
3. Place des Terreaux, by Babinet Damien, via Wikimedia Commons
4. La place des Terreaux, by Husky185 on Wikipedia
5. Lyon from Fourviére by Carlos de Paz, via flickr
6. La Part Dieu by K.G. Hawes on Flickr

The Ultimate Guide to Lyon:
a six-part Series of tips on how to discover the best of Lyon


French City Guides: Experience Lyon

1. Experience Lyon: arts and culture
2. Experience Lyon: ‘must see’ neighborhoods
3. Experience Lyon: surroundings – best day trips
4. Experience Lyon: seasonal guide (this one)
5. Experience Lyon: gastronomy
6. Experience Lyon: the ultimate city guide

About the Contributor

Alexis Herrington

Growing up in the United States, I always dreamed of living abroad. After completing degrees in English and French, I was able to live in different parts of France as an English language teacher. I currently live in Bordeaux and work remotely as a copyeditor for Jellysmack's Paris office. I spend the rest of my time exploring this beautiful city and learning as much as I can about French wine.

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