Nutcracker Ballet in Lyon: A Magical Christmas Event in 2026
Experience the magic of Christmas with the British Festival Ballet’s production of ‘The Nutcracker’ at the Centre de Congrès de Lyon on Sunday, December 6, 2026, at 4:00 PM. This fairy-tale ballet, set to Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s timeless music, promises a captivating experience for the entire family. With opulent costumes, diverse choreography, and a festive atmosphere, it’s an unmissable highlight of the holiday season.
What to Expect from the Performance
The British Festival Ballet, led by Yassaui Mergaliyev (gold medalist at the Varna competition) and Sophie Mergaliyev (former dancer of the Royal Swedish Ballet), brings Hoffmann’s tale to life. This French premiere combines the refined Vaganova school style with the technical prowess of the English school, establishing the company as one of the most dynamic touring ensembles today.
The story unfolds on Christmas Eve, where young Marie receives a mysterious Nutcracker from her uncle. As night falls, toys come alive, drawing Marie into a whirlwind of extraordinary adventures. This musical and choreographic masterpiece will enchant audiences of all ages.
Ticket Information
Tickets for this exceptional ballet at the Centre de Congrès are priced between €45 and €65. Given the popularity of this renowned production, directed by internationally acclaimed artists, early booking is highly recommended to secure your seats in one of Lyon’s most beautiful venues.
Purchase your tickets here: Buy Tickets
Getting to the Centre de Congrès de Lyon
The Centre de Congrès de Lyon is conveniently accessible, ensuring a smooth arrival for all attendees.
By Car:
- Take the Northern Ring Road (Périphérique Nord) and exit at Porte de Saint Clair.
- Parking options (within a 3-minute walk):
- P0 parking: 1,000 spaces
- P1 parking: 1,150 spaces (30% discount via OPnGO app)
- P2 parking: 1,200 spaces (for vehicles up to 2.70m high)
By Public Transport (TCL):
Several TCL bus lines serve the venue directly:
- Bus lines C1, C2, C4, and C5 stop at “Cité internationale | Centre de Congrès” or “Cité internationale | Transbordeur.”
- The C1 line offers a direct connection from Lyon Part-Dieu Station.
- The C5 line connects from Cordeliers metro station.
Our recommendation: For direct access and to avoid parking constraints, we advise using public transport, especially the C1 line from Part-Dieu.
Additional Information
- Venue: Centre de Congrès de Lyon, 69006 Lyon
- Date and Time: Sunday, December 6, 2026, at 4:00 PM
- Ticket Prices: €45 – €65
Beyond ‘The Nutcracker,’ the Centre de Congrès de Lyon continues to host exceptional shows. Don’t miss future events like Luc Langevin – l’Illusionniste, which promises to amaze audiences in the same prestigious hall.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is this ballet suitable for children?
A: Yes, ‘The Nutcracker’ is a classic family-friendly ballet perfect for all ages, especially during the festive season.
Q: Can I purchase tickets at the venue on the day of the performance?
A: While possible, it is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance due to high demand, especially for a popular show like ‘The Nutcracker.’
Q: Are there any discounts available for groups or families?
A: Please check the ticketing website or contact the Centre de Congrès directly for information on potential group or family discounts.
Q: What is the duration of the performance?
A: The typical duration for ‘The Nutcracker’ ballet is around 2 hours and 10 minutes, including an intermission.
Q: Is the venue accessible for people with reduced mobility?
A: The Centre de Congrès de Lyon is generally accessible. For specific requirements, it’s best to contact the venue directly.
Source: jds.fr
