Best Light Show In December
Every December, Lyon is transformed into a technicolor show for four days. The Black Death (also known as the Bubonic Plague) was ravaging the city at the time the Fête des Lumières was first celebrated in the 14th century. With a torch in hand, the locals marched to Fourvière in search of health. The municipal council now arranges light displays in the streets and on the exteriors of significant buildings in the weeks leading up to December 8 (the feast of the Immaculate Conception), while individuals decorate their windows with multicolored candles. It is an energetic celebration of thanks, heritage, and pride for Lyon.
The Old City is covered in thousands of lit candles, beautiful music, and street parades transform the area into a place awash in light, beauty, and song. On the evening of the holiday, the area becomes even more beautiful. People in the city dress up their windows and light candles and lanterns on the window sills. The candles are the only source of light at night because the street lights are turned off. It is essential to check hotel rates and make bookings in advance because the town is flooded with thousands of residents and visitors, increasing the demand for lodging. This setting transports the attendees to a shared memory: the inauguration of the enormous statue of the Virgin Mary (which still stands up) in 1852, during the 19th century. The festival, which originally was a single-day religious celebration, was extended to four days. Numerous cultural events and concerts are held on the extra days.
