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- What to do in Lyon in May?
What to do in Lyon in May?
What's on
Last updated date : 21/04/2026
There’s no shortage of things to see and do in May, as the Lyon metropolitan is in full bloom! Make the most of the warm weather and public holidays to enjoy the nightlife, see the sights and do some sport.
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Exhibitions in Lyon in May
The ‘Nuit européenne des musées’ (European night of museums) is one of the highlights of May, offering a fun way to (re)discover the collections of several museums in the metropolitan area (Musée des Beaux-Arts, Musée des Confluences, Musée d'Histoire de Lyon, Lugdunum, etc.) when the sun sets…
Things to see in May
European Night of Museums in Lyon
Are you visiting Lyon during European Museum Night on May ? Don’t miss this unique opportunity to visit Lyon’s many museums for free in a truly special atmosphere! Here’s an overview of the events on offer during this extraordinary night.
Warning. Most museums are closed on May 1st. The exceptions are the Henri Malarte Museum and the Cinema and Miniatures Museum.
Festival season in May
May is synonymous with festivals in Lyon. Among the most famous are Nuits Sonores, which attracts electronic music fans, and Nuits de Fourvière, which offers a multidisciplinary programme featuring theatre, dance, music and circus performances.
Music and concerts in Lyon in May
The month of May is eagerly awaited by electronic music fans. Each year, over the Ascension Day weekend, for five days and four nights, Lyon pulsates to the sounds of electronic music. The festival ‘Nuits sonores’ welcomes stars of the international scene and visits various locations throughout the city, including La Sucrière. Don’t miss the ‘Extras’ and ‘Mini Sonores’, which invite children to explore music.
Shows in Lyon in May
What shows shouldn't you miss in Lyon in May? Take a look at the programme of the Les Fabricants festival, which since 2014 has been showcasing students from the CNSMD, or the Gipsy Lyon Festival, which celebrates gypsy culture at the Croix-Rousse every year.
