Lyon’s Festival of Lights will transform the city from 5 to 8 December 2019

While several French cities host their own festival of lights, nothing rivals the temporary urban show on offer in Lyon. This year, a digital ecosystem will feature an ambitious artistic programme and a full range of works that include everything from poetry and games to glitzy performances.

Lyon celebrates light

The festival features technological innovations, of course, but its greatest strength lies in the tradition that it perpetuates and that all of the city’s inhabitants have adopted. Sixty-five new creations, 35 locations, 140 volunteers, and 80 participating companies, institutions, and partners will welcome nearly 2 million visitors as they transform local architectural gems and heritage sites.

For 4 nights, Lyon’s monuments will be transformed with help from multimedia displays. © DR

Through the magic of technology, several one-of-a-kind displays will give local heritage sites a complete makeover. © DR

Daniel Buren : the starchitect of Lyon’s renovation

The 2019 edition will once again include the Place des Terreaux in the list of featured sites. Located between the Rhône and Saône at the foot of Croix-Rousse Hill, the square’s display, which will feature cubes and fountains designed by the architect Daniel Buren, will make it one of the festival’s top attractions. Get ready for an unforgettable experience in the middle of Gaul’s capital.

It’s hard to believe these robots pushing against the bridge are just an illusion. © DR