The magic of the festive season is in Lyon, of course, but let’s not forget that our region also shines with a thousand lights. In every corner of the Rhône and beyond, Christmas events are taking shape all month long. The latest is this magnificent family-friendly event, held in one of France’s most beautiful villages.
Oingt en crèches, the unmissable family event at the end of the year
Not 1, not 2, 16 or 54, but 200 cribs! In a small town of 4,000 souls, that’s a mouth-watering ratio. From Saturday December 6 to January 4 next year, the Rhône’s only “Most Beautiful Villages in France” is organizing a free, family-friendly event not to be missed.
As if to echo the Fête des Lumières, Oingtse is also decked out in lights, bringing out garlands, illuminations, Christmas trees and baubles all over the village. Imagine an itinerary leading you through the narrow streets of this thousand-year-old village. The common thread, of course, is the 200 or so original nativity scenes scattered behind windows, in shop windows, or at the bend in an alley for a sort of treasure hunt. On weekends, there’s also a refreshment stall with waffles, mulled wine and hot chocolate.
Oingt, the most beautiful village in the Rhône?
Oingt is a chameleon-like village, transforming itself from one season to the next. In summer, it’s the light that bursts forth and is reflected on the stones of the houses. In autumn, the sunsets and morning light in the vineyards are incomparable. In winter, the surrounding valleys are covered in frost. In the end, the symphony of spring doesn’t even need to be told…
Oingt is the only village in the Rhône to have been awarded the “Most Beautiful Villages in France” label. Coincidence? You be the judge. Whatever the case, you’ll never be disappointed. Whether it’s for its panorama or its architecture, the village can’t leave you indifferent. The festive season is the perfect time to take a stroll through the village streets. Stop off for a waffle or a glass of mulled wine and return to Lyon with the feeling that you’ve had a good day out!