Giant Dictation Event at Lyon Part-Dieu Station: Your Practical Guide to a Crime Novel-Themed Workshop
On Wednesday, September 16, 2026, Lyon Part-Dieu Station will host a unique and free giant dictation event, bringing the world of crime novels to life. Organized by France Culture and SNCF Gares & Connexions, and supported by the City of Lyon, this literary gathering is designed for all ages, starting from 7 years old. This guide provides all the essential information you need to participate in this engaging cultural activity.
What is the “Dictée en gare”?
The “Dictée en gare” (Dictation at the Station) is a nationwide tour that makes a significant stop in Lyon. It offers a fun and educational opportunity to test your spelling and grammar skills in a lively atmosphere. This Lyon edition is particularly special as it celebrates the launch of the very first “Prix du Polar Place de la Gare” (Crime Novel Award at the Station Square), highlighting the rich genre of crime literature.
Lyon’s connection to the world of investigation and mystery makes it an ideal location for this event. As the birthplace of cinema with the Lumière brothers, a pioneer in forensic science thanks to Edmond Locard’s work, and host to the “Quais du Polar” festival, the city has a long-standing relationship with detective stories.
Event Details and Schedule
The event will take place in the main hall of the Gare de la Part-Dieu, located at 5 place Charles Béraudier, 69003 Lyon.
Dates and Times:
- Wednesday, September 16, 2026
- Sessions are scheduled at: 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, and 3:00 PM
Each session lasts approximately 30 minutes.
Admission:
- The event is completely free and open to everyone aged 7 and above.
- No prior registration is required. Simply show up at your desired session time.
What to Expect During the Dictation
Participants will be immersed in excerpts from the four finalist novels of the “Prix du Polar Place de la Gare”:
- Le Piège by Olivier Bal
- L’Ascenseur by Jacques Expert
- La Colline by Mathilde Beaussault
- Sécher tes larmes by Meï Lepage
These texts will serve as the basis for the dictation exercises, presented in a friendly and convivial atmosphere. The format blends linguistic rigor with lightheartedness, ensuring the exercise remains an enjoyable shared experience.
Session Structure:
- A dictation passage read aloud from one of the finalist novels.
- A commented correction of the dictation.
The event will be hosted by Rachid Santaki, a renowned author and familiar face at public literary events. To further enhance the experience, several personalities will participate in reading the texts throughout the day, including award-winning authors Meï Lepage and Olivier Bal, who will read passages from their respective works. Lyon’s Mayor, Grégory Doucet, will also be present, adding a civic dimension to this literary gathering.
Practical Information for Participants
- Materials: You don’t need to bring any supplies. Notebooks and pencils will be provided on-site.
- Accessibility: The event is designed to be accessible to people with reduced mobility, ensuring a welcoming environment for all.
- Location: Gare de la Part-Dieu, 5 place Charles Béraudier, 69003 Lyon.
Why Participate?
This “Dictée en gare” offers a fantastic opportunity to:
- Improve your French spelling and grammar in a fun and interactive way.
- Discover new crime novel authors and their works.
- Engage in a cultural activity in an iconic location in Lyon.
- Spend quality time with family and friends, as the event is suitable for all ages.
This cultural animation in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes promises to be a highlight of the literary season, offering a unique blend of education and entertainment in the heart of Lyon.
Contact Information
For general inquiries, please refer to the event details provided at the station on the day of the event, as no specific contact number or email for this particular dictation is listed.
Location Details:
- Address: Gare de la Part-Dieu, 5 place Charles Béraudier, 69003 Lyon
Don’t miss this opportunity to delve into the world of crime novels and challenge your linguistic skills in a festive and popular setting!
