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An exceptional and unique event in Europe (ARA) - The City of Lyon, France, will take on a fairy tale atmosphere from Dec. 6 - 9, 2001, as it celebrates its third annual Festival of Lights. For three nights, this historic city, located at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, will be illuminated with a thousand brilliant, colorful, dynamic lights. Traditional Feast of Illumination Transformed into Major Tourist Attraction The festival has its roots in the traditional Feast of Lights, celebrated on Dec. 8, which dates back to the 19th century. On that date in 1862, the people of Lyon first placed candles in their windows in honor of the statue of Mary erected on the Chapelle de Fourvière to give thanks to the Virgin for having held back the plague epidemic at the gates of their city. Two years ago, the traditional fete was transformed into a major three-day festival, which extends far beyond the local framework and is now a high point in the city's festive calendar. Lyon Becomes the City of a Thousand Lights During December Festival Whether moving through the heart of street entertainment, sculpturally highlighting the city's buildings or drawing a nocturnal picture of the urban landscape, the illuminations of the Lyon Festival of Lights will be the center of unusual and enchanting festivities for three nights. All of the different ways man uses light, from torches to laser beams, will be celebrated for these three days. From the narrow streets of the historic Croix-Rousse hill to the banks of the Rhône River, from the Fourvière tunnel to the Parc de Gerland, Lyon at night will celebrate light in all its forms: candles, light signals, projected images and fireworks. Illumination of the finest features of the city's architecture will be matched by dozens of festive light displays throughout the city. At the same time, permanent lighting on numerous public or private buildings will be inaugurated. The highlight of the festival will be Dec. 8, with a spectacular light show on the Rhône River, live performances with light effects and activities in the surrounding area. Lumiere Festival Sheds New Light on a Historic City The festival presents a fantastic opportunity for visitors to discover one of the best-kept secrets in Europe. Lyon, France's second-largest city, was recently designated a UNESCO World Heritage City for its illustrious 2000-year history. Lyon is acknowledged as the culinary capital of France and is known for its many cultural events throughout the year. The past is still alive in such landmarks as the Gallo-Roman amphitheater, still used for concerts; the Croix-Rousse hill, center of the silk industry in the 1800s and a lively residential district today; and the largest Renaissance Quarter in Europe, still thriving with daily activity, with hotels, restaurants and shops. For more information on Lyon or the Festival of Lights, visit www.mairie-lyon.fr. Courtesy of ARA Content, www.ARAcontent.com, e-mail: info@ARAcontent.com |
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