Lyon Christmas Market 2026 Dates & the Festival of Lights

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Lyon Festival of Lights

The Lyon Festival of Lights, or Fête des Lumières, is a spectacular event that transforms Lyon into a vibrant canvas of light.

Held annually in early December, this four-day event attracts millions of visitors to the city. Artists worldwide are invited to create light installations that illuminate the city’s iconic buildings, streets and parks.

Status: Expected, based on previous years
Festival of Lights: 4th to 7th December 2026
Source: Fête des Lumières

Opening times:
Thursday to Saturday: 8pm to midnight.
Sunday: 6pm to 8pm.
Locations:
Saint-Jean Cathedral
Saint-Paul Railway Station
Fourvière Hill
Place du Change
Les Subsistances
Place Sathoney
Place des Terreaux
Place Louis Pradel
Place de la Bourse
Place de la République
Quartier Grolée
Place des Jacobins

What to Expect

At the main market in Lyon, nearly 100 wooden chalets line the streets, and their displays are filled with artisanal crafts, festive decorations, and Lyonnaise specialties.

Food Specialties

• Bûche de Noël: When it comes to desserts, the Bûche de Noël cake is a French classic. This dessert resembles a log, reminiscent of the ancient tradition of burning a Yule log. The cake is a rolled sponge, usually filled with chocolate or chestnut puree, and covered with chocolate ganache to imitate bark, decorated with figurines.
• Oysters: Although not a unique Lyonnaise tradition, eating oysters on holidays is common in France. They are typically served raw on the half shell with a little lemon juice or mignonette sauce.
• Quenelles: These are a Lyonnaise speciality. Quenelles are a type of dumpling, typically made with fish or meat. They are often poached and served with a rich sauce.
• Pommes Dauphinoise: A traditional French dish that originated in the Dauphiné region. It involves thinly sliced and layered potatoes cooked in the oven with cream, garlic and cheese.
• Tartiflette: Originating from the Savoy region, tartiflette is a creamy side dish made with potatoes, reblochon cheese, lardons (bacon) and onions.
• Raclette: A semi-hard cheese typically used for melting and then scraped over boiled potatoes, pickles and charcuterie.
• Galette des Rois: Although traditionally associated with Epiphany in January, it’s not uncommon to see this flaky puff pastry tart earlier in the season. A small figurine, or ‘fève’, is hidden inside, and the person who finds it in their slice becomes the ‘king’ or ‘queen’ for the day.

At the Market Stalls

• Praluline: Originating from Lyon and crafted by Auguste Pralus in 1955, Praluline is a brioche bread filled with pink sugared almonds. I like it with butter, but you can also eat it on its own.
• Vin Chaud: Winter markets wouldn’t be complete without a mug of vin chaud or mulled wine.
• Saucisson: A quintessential Lyonnaise street food, saucisson is a warm sausage served in a baguette.
• Roasted Chestnuts: Often sold by street vendors, these are roasted on an open fire and served warm.
• Pain d’épices: A traditional French rich spiced bread.
• Crêpes: Thin, light pancakes with sweet or savoury fillings, such as ham and cheese or chocolate and whipped cream.
• Bratwurst: German bratwurst is available in Lyon.

What to Buy

• Lyon Silk: Lyon has historically been a significant centre for the silk industry. Here, you can find silk scarves, ties, and other accessories.
• Guignol Puppets: Traditional Lyonnaise puppets are a local favourite.
• Santons de Provence: Hand-painted terracotta nativity figurines from the Provence region of France.
• Gastronomy: Lyon, renowned as the gastronomic capital of France, offers a diverse selection of food products that make excellent gifts to take home. Think bottles of local wine, artisanal cheese, Lyonnaise sausages, or jars of local honey.
• Decorations: Traditional ornaments, beautifully crafted baubles, handmade nativity scenes, and other festive decorations abound.
• French Cosmetics: From soaps to natural skin care products, French cosmetics have a well-deserved reputation for quality. It’s not uncommon to find stalls selling these products, often made with ingredients like lavender from Provence or honey from the Rhône-Alpes region.

Sustainability Tips

• Renewable Energy: Some hotels in Lyon are committed to using renewable energy.
• Food Waste: Order portions you can finish and consider sharing dishes to minimise waste.
• Ethical Consumption: At the markets, prioritise locally made gifts and products that support the regional economy. Only buy what you’re sure to use.
• Sustainable Food: Many plant-based and vegetarian eateries in Lyon offer a diverse range of tasty dishes. Switching to plant-based meals, even for a few days, can reduce your carbon footprint.
• Transport: Lyon has a fantastic public transportation system, which includes trams, buses and the metro. Additionally, Lyon’s Vélo’v bike-sharing program is a fun, healthy and sustainable way to see the city.

Comment below if you want to leave a Xmas review, have any questions or would like to report any inaccuracies.

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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon as definitive. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.