The Fête Nationale fireworks in Lyon show includes trips to six different countries
The program for Lyon’s July 14 fireworks show includes a pyrotechnic world tour for the spectators gathered along the Saône.
Paying homage to the countries most known for their firework effects, the show will travel from France to the USA, China, Italy, Spain, Japan, and back during the 20-minute spectacle.
The fireworks light up the sky behind Fourvière and are most visible from the streets lining the Saône at the top of the Presqu’île. © Only Lyon
Around the World in Fireworks
The fireworks start at 10:30 p.m. at three different sites on the hill: the Parc des Hauteurs, the ECAM gardens, and the Conservatoire de Lyon, all in Lyon 5 leading up to the Basilica of Fourvière.
The show lasts 20 minutes and includes 14 scenes across the chosen countries, with fireworks representing the effects each country is known for. The French fireworks focus on elegance and graphics, while the USA is all about rhythmic aerials.
China is noisy and spectacular while Italy includes multiple-effect shots with star showers. Spain brings pastel colors and palm trees, and Japan finishes it off with pyrotechnic gold and color changes.
The basilica is illuminated during each of the scenes, going along with the country themes. The finale lasts three minutes and combines the six countries’ effects for a raucous exit.
Music and Festivities on the Riverside
Lyon’s July 14 celebrations also include a riverside festival, with three different stages along the quays of the Saône.
The music kicks off at 9 p.m. and lasts until 12:30 a.m., on the Presqu’île side of the docks between bridges Maréchal Juin and Bonaparte.
This year, the stages include French song, mixed rhythms, and Italian music.
July 14 Traffic and Security Regulations
All areas in Vieux Lyon and on the Presqu’île concerned by the evening’s festivities are be closed to car traffic. © City of Lyon
The festivities come with some changes to automobile and foot traffic during the evening.
Parking garages in the area around the balls are closed from 7 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. The main area of Vieux Lyon and the Presqu’île between the two bridges are also closed to car traffic from 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.
For safety reasons, access to the park, ECAM, and conservatory where the fireworks will be set off is also limited. The areas are closed in the evening on the 14th and the funicular to Fourvière will stop running at 8 p.m. All areas will be reopened on July 15th.