Lyon, June 26, 2026 – The city of Lyon is once again hosting the highly anticipated ‘Entre Rhône et Saône’ Festival, which kicked off today and will run until June 28, 2026. This fifth edition of the event has become an unmissable summer fixture, celebrating the two rivers that define Lyon’s identity with more than 200 free activities encompassing culture, sport, heritage, and aquatic discovery.
Three Days to Celebrate Lyon’s Rivers
Throughout the weekend, the banks of the Rhône and Saône rivers will come alive with concerts, street performances, workshops, conferences, exhibitions, nautical initiations, and family-friendly activities. Friday’s program features a giant picnic, ‘Ondine à la Guill’,’ followed by a diverse musical and artistic lineup that will continue until Sunday evening.
A major highlight of the festival is the return of the 400-meter drifting swim in the Rhône, scheduled for Sunday at the Parc des Berges Nord. The program, focused on rediscovering Lyon’s waterways, will also include scuba diving baptisms, boat trips, and ‘mermaids and mermen’ workshops.
An Unmissable Summer Event
Created to strengthen the connection between residents and the rivers that flow through the metropolis, the ‘Entre Rhône et Saône’ Festival has gradually established itself as one of Lyon’s premier free summer events. Through this fifth edition, the City of Lyon aims to encourage the re-appropriation of the riverbanks and raise public awareness of the environmental and heritage issues related to aquatic environments, all while offering a program accessible to everyone.
The festival’s success is evident in its growing popularity, with an increasing number of participants each year. The diverse range of activities ensures there is something for all ages and interests, from educational workshops about river ecosystems to exhilarating water sports.
Impact on Local Community and Tourism
The ‘Entre Rhône et Saône’ Festival serves as a significant cultural and recreational event for Lyon’s residents and also attracts tourists, boosting the local economy. The free nature of the activities makes it accessible to a wide audience, promoting community engagement and a shared appreciation for the city’s natural assets.
Local businesses, particularly those in the hospitality and retail sectors along the riverbanks, often experience an increase in activity during the festival. The event’s focus on environmental awareness also aligns with broader sustainability goals, encouraging responsible enjoyment of urban natural spaces.
Future Prospects for the Festival
Given its consistent growth and positive reception, the ‘Entre Rhône et Saône’ Festival is expected to continue as a key event in Lyon’s annual calendar. The organizers are likely to explore new themes and activities in future editions, maintaining its appeal while reinforcing its core mission of connecting the city with its rivers.
The festival’s ability to blend entertainment with education on environmental topics positions it as a model for urban events that seek to foster both cultural vibrancy and ecological consciousness.
Source: https://www.lyon-entreprises.com/actualites/article/festival-entre-rhone-et-saone-lyon-2026
