Origin of Lyon's 8 December celebrations

The history of Lyon's 8 December celebrations, now known as the Festival of Lights, dates back to the 17th century, at a time of crisis and despair for the city of Lyon. In 1643, a plague epidemic threatened to decimate the population, plunging the city into fear and uncertainty. It was against this dramatic backdrop that a miracle was attributed to the intercession of the Virgin Mary, marking the beginning of a religious and popular tradition that continues to shine centuries later. This article looks at the origins of these celebrations and how they evolved.

The historical context: Lyon faced with the plague

A devastating epidemic:

The plague was one of the most feared scourges of the time. In the 17th century, several waves of epidemics ravaged Europe, killing millions of people. In 1643, the plague reached the outskirts of Lyon, threatening the city.

A city in the grip of anxiety:

Lyon, then a major commercial and religious centre, was particularly vulnerable due to its constant trade with other regions. The inhabitants, powerless in the face of the advancing disease, turned to prayer and divine intercession.

The aldermen's vow: A promise to the Virgin Mary

A step of faith:

In September 1643, the aldermen (municipal magistrates) of Lyon decided to make a solemn vow to the Virgin Mary to ask for her protection. They promised to go in procession every year to the hill of Fourvière, where there is a chapel dedicated to Mary, if the city was spared.

An intercession granted:

Soon after this step, the plague miraculously stopped at the gates of Lyon. The inhabitants saw this event as a direct intervention by the Virgin Mary, reinforcing their devotion and gratitude.

The first celebrations of the vow

The procession on 8 September:

Initially, the aldermen's vow was honoured every year on 8 September, the day of the Nativity of the Virgin. The municipal and religious authorities go up in procession to Fourvière to attend a solemn mass.

Popular recognition:

The people of Lyon are increasingly taking part in these celebrations. The procession became a central event in the city's religious life, strengthening the bond between the inhabitants and their heavenly protector.

 The emergence of 8 December as a key date

The installation of the statue of the Virgin in 1852:

8 December 1852 marked a new stage in the history of Lyon's Marian celebrations. On that day, a statue of the Virgin Mary was inaugurated at the top of the bell tower of Fourvière chapel. Although initially scheduled for 8 September, the ceremony was postponed due to bad weather.

A spontaneous celebration:

On the evening of 8 December 1852, despite uncertain weather conditions, the people of Lyon spontaneously lit their windows with candles to show their gratitude to the Virgin. This simple gesture became a lasting tradition.

The transformation into the Festival of Lights

From devotion to art:

Over the centuries, the celebration of 8 December has evolved. While the religious dimension remained central, artistic and festive elements were gradually added, notably with the lighting up of the city's emblematic monuments.

An international festival:

Today, the Festival of Lights attracts millions of visitors every year. It has become a major cultural event, while retaining its spiritual roots.

Spiritual and cultural significance

A symbol of gratitude:

The miracle of the plague in 1643 is at the heart of Lyon's celebrations. Every candle lit, every procession is a reminder of the gratitude of the people of Lyon to the Virgin Mary.

A message of hope:

Lyon's Marian tradition is also a message of hope for future generations, reminding us that faith and solidarity can triumph over the most difficult trials.

The miracle of the plague in 1643 is much more than a historical event: it is the foundation of a living tradition that still lights up Lyon every year. This moment of faith, gratitude and celebration continues to inspire, uniting residents and visitors in a unique communion between past and present. Candlelight, the symbol of an ancient miracle, now illuminates a universal spiritual and cultural heritage.