The magic of the festive season
Between the 23rd of November and the 24th of December 2019, wooden huts pop up on squares in and around Lyon, to the delight of kids and grown-ups.
You know the end-of-year festivities are approaching when the street illuminations, roasted chestnut vendors and Christmas markets start to appear. Nowhere is the atmosphere more magical than at these markets. With the Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights) around the corner, people stock up on lumignons (small window lanterns) and begin their Christmas shopping.
The Christmas markets offer many and varied delights to treat yourself or your loved ones, all in one place: candied fruits, mulled wine, aligot (creamed potato with cheese) and more... Braving the cold winter weather, the artisans and sellers fill their stalls to create a wonderful sight. With jewellery, Christmas crib figures and decorations, there is something for all tastes and budgets. For the children, they are an ideal place to spend money from the piggy bank, with candyfloss and little gifts.
Lyon’s most popular markets
The Christmas market on Place Carnot: A major market in Lyon city centre, held from the 23rd of November to the 24th of December 2019, it brings together 140 wooden huts, and has a “winter garden” where market-goers can sample their purchases on the spot. There are also many activities on offer, with the most eagerly awaited by children being Santa’s arrival at the market on the 23rd of November, where he will be stopping before his big night. You can discover a new activity every day, including workshops, concerts and shows.
The Croix-Rousse Christmas market: From the 4th to the 23rd of December 2019, Place de la Croix-Rousse becomes a ski resort (well almost!). A toboggan run, merry-go-round, wooden huts and activities each weekend make this a great fun event over the festive period.
Around Lyon
- Marché de Noël de La Tour de Salvagny
- Marché de Noël de Villeurbanne
- Noël des Créateurs on Place Ambroise-Courtois
- Marché de Noël de Saint-Priest
- Vintage Christmas aux Puces du Canal
- Pop'-Hop in Lyon’s 1st district
Discover the Christmas markets with your loved ones. Don't miss these markets for a delightful end to the year. A magical atmosphere!
Virginie comes from Corsica. "We can't all be born in Lyon…" as they say. But our lovely city is now under her skin (although her beloved island remains firmly anchored in her heart).
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