With the temperatures we’ve been having lately, we’d almost be tempted to perform a rain dance to cool things down. Don’t panic: if a miracle doesn’t come from the sky, it will come from our city of Lyon with the “Entre Rhône et Saône” festival from June 26 to 28. Over these three days, the capital of Gaul will come alive to the rhythm of its rivers with more than 200 activities organized by local stakeholders. This year, the festival is thinking big with more than 200 events covering history, culture, sports, science, the environment,and more…All organized by associations, artists, cultural institutions, corporate sponsors… and, of course, the people of Lyon themselves.
An XXL open-air dance hall featuring the giant Ondine banquet at La Guill’
On Friday, June 26, everyone is invited to take part in this joyful celebration in the style of a true Gallic feast. The idea? Share your food with the table to your right while getting to know your neighbors on the left. Baskets of fruits and vegetables will be provided for the occasion. Remember to bring your own tableware (reusable if possible). And if you’re still a little hungry, food trucks will also be on hand. The tables, set up along the banks of the Guillotière, will offer a breathtaking view of the Rhône. A convivial moment to kick off the weekend with a bang!
- 📍 Quai Augagneur (upper banks of La Guillotière)
- 📅 Friday, June 26, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.—free admission!
A canoe trip on the Rhône
Who hasn’t dreamed of going on a canoe expedition down the Rhône? This weekend is your chance to try this unique experience, which will help you better understand the river as a whole and the importance of preserving it. The route is accessible to all skill levels but requires a good level of physical fitness. The trip takes you upriver along the Rhône from the Lyon Canoë water sports center in Gerland to downtown (for ages 15 and up).
- 📍 Lyon Canoë Water Sports Center, 4 rue Jonas-Salk, Lyon 7th arrondissement
- 📅 Friday from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
The Mâchecroute is back!
She’s back! After devouring all the city’s mâchons, the Mâchcroute is making her grand return. This year, she measures no less than 20 meters long by 8 meters high and is returning for the occasion in a brand-new form for 2026! Her shape and the legend surrounding the beast attract young and old alike every year to capture the moment. A selfie with a dragon—that’s definitely not something you see every day!
- 📍 Guillotière Riverbanks
- 📅 Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
And so on…
We highly encourage you to check out the full program, which, once again this year, has something to satisfy every audience. Shows, concerts, walks, workshops, activities, swimming, introductory sessions, and tastings! In short, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to register on the festival website: most activities require reservations. In any case, even before the festivities begin, don’t forget to stay hydrated this week.
