The Festival of Lights
In 1850, religious authorities postponed the inauguration of a statue of the Virgin Mary due to bad weather. Eventually, the skies cleared—a sign from the Divine. Spontaneously, the people of Lyon placed candles and lanterns in their windows, illuminating the entire city, with the chapel of Fourvière standing out against the night sky. That night, a celebration was born—the Festival of Lights—which, a century and a half later, attracts thousands of locals and tourists alike to the streets of Lyon. Today, it is a popular event. For four days in December, creators of light installations showcase their ingenuity and creativity. Beyond the festival, Lyon continues to invest in urban lighting. With nearly 1000 new lighting installations added each year, the city is internationally recognized for its expertise in urban nocturnal landscapes. Each neighborhood boasts its own unique "light" signature, from industrial spotlights to the flickering of lanterns.
The illuminated city hall during the festival ©DR
