Planning to attend the Lyon Fair this March? Whether you’re an ambitious professional aiming to exhibit or an individual seeking fantastic deals, immerse yourself in 11 days of vibrant activity. Afterward, unwind and reconnect with nature at Barolles campsite, your tranquil escape.
Unveiling the History of the Lyon Fair
While this year marks the 108th edition of the Lyon Fair, its rich heritage stretches back much further, originating in the medieval period.
The Genesis of the Lyon Fair
The roots of the Lyon Fair can be traced to 1420 when King Charles VII initiated the first “frank fairs.” These early events granted both French and foreign merchants the same trading privileges previously enjoyed by the renowned Champagne fairs, which had flourished since the 12th century.
These inaugural annual fairs were interrupted in 1429 due to widespread looting but were successfully re-established 15 years later in 1444. The subsequent year, 1445, saw Charles VII introduce a third annual fair. To bolster Lyon’s economic growth, he also prohibited traders within the kingdom from attending the Geneva Fair. By 1461, upon his coronation, King Louis XI affirmed these existing fairs and added a fourth annual event.
Despite being formally documented in 1494 through a decree known as the ‘privileges of the fairs in Lyon,’ these 15th-century gatherings ultimately could not withstand the economic pressures imposed by ongoing wars.
The Modern Era of the Lyon Fair
The contemporary Lyon Fair, as we recognize it today, emerged from the vision of Georges-Louis Arlaud and Antoine Rivoire, who sought to create a formidable competitor to the Paris Fair. Their efforts led to the formation of the Lyonnaise Company for the Development of Trade and Industry in 1915 by Édouard Herriot and Jean Coignet, which evolved into the Lyon Fair Company the following year.
The inaugural modern fair commenced on March 1, 1916, across various venues including the Bondy Palace, the Bourse Palace, and the Rhône Quays. During the second edition in 1917, which President Raymond Poincaré attended, the decision was made to construct a dedicated space to house the proliferating stands. This led to the construction of the Palais de la Foire between 1918 and 1935. However, this structure was demolished in 1980 to make way for the Cité Internationale de Lyon. It wasn’t until 1985 that the Lyon Fair found its permanent home at Eurexpo.
Lyon
Since 2006, the Lyon Fair has embraced an annual theme, adding a fresh dimension to each event. Past themes have included “The Peoples of Tibet,” “Cinema,” “An Eye on the Cosmos,” “Rock Story,” “The Lyon Fair Celebrates its Centenary!” and “Life in Pink.”
Why Attend the Lyon Fair?
This year, the Lyon Fair returns to Eurexpo from March 22nd to April 1st. Discover compelling reasons to visit, whether you’re an exhibitor or simply an interested visitor.
Opportunities for Smart Shopping
The Lyon Fair proudly hosts 578 exhibitors across diverse categories, catering to a wide array of interests and needs.
The Home & Living Zone
Connect with specialists ready to bring all your home improvement dreams to life! Whether you’re planning an extension or seeking innovative heating solutions, the dedicated home space offers everything you need.
Here, you’ll uncover fresh inspirations, effortlessly compare various products, and engage directly with experts in fields such as furnishings, interior design, gardening, swimming pools, kitchens, bathrooms, appliances, multimedia, and decorative items.
The Retail & Discovery Area
Whether you’re hunting for a specific item or eager to explore new trends, the shopping area invites you to browse a vast selection of both local and international products.
Within this dynamic retail environment, you can witness captivating product demonstrations, personally test items that pique your interest, and engage with exhibitors from around the globe.
Explore the world’s rich cultural and culinary offerings, indulge in the latest Italian fashion, and find a moment of relaxation and leisure within the Lyon Fair.
Culinary Delights & Gastronomy
In need of a quick bite or a gourmet experience? The Lyon Fair’s catering and gastronomy zone is where you can savor exquisite French products.
From sweet treats to savory delights, there’s something to tantalize every palate. For the true epicureans, take the opportunity to (re)discover celebrated French cheeses, regional cured meats, and the renowned wines that define our country’s culinary prestige.
Engage, Learn, and Be Entertained
The Lyon Fair also provides a unique platform to connect with experts who can answer all your inquiries.
Innova’lyon
From March 22nd to 24th, join the 6th edition of Innova’lyon, often referred to as the startup village.
Innova’lyon is dedicated to showcasing the ingenuity, creativity, and dynamism of innovative companies within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Over these three days, emerging innovative businesses will have the chance to test their products directly with the public.
Innova’lyon represents an unparalleled opportunity for startups to present their groundbreaking projects and for visitors to discover the concepts that will shape tomorrow.
The Green Village Fair
Running from March 22nd to 24th, the Eco-Responsible Green Village Fair arrives at the Lyon Fair.
A collaborative effort with the Green Green Association, the Green Village Fair aims to empower you to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle and make better consumption choices in the Lyon region.
You’ll uncover responsible local consumption alternatives through the “Consume Less and Better” exhibition, offering practical insights across food, clothing, hygiene, well-being, digital solutions, and mobility.
Kidexpo
On March 23rd and 24th, don’t miss Kidexpo, the ultimate family gathering. Discover valuable resources for parents and engaging activities for children, ensuring a 100% family-friendly experience.
Kidexpo convenes leaders in education, leisure, health, and sport, who present their ideas through educational seminars, fun activities, and even product testing sessions.
Baby Expo
For two days, March 23rd and 24th, immerse yourself in the essential event for expectant and new parents.
The Baby Expo brings together early childhood exhibitors to address your questions and needs. Meet associations, retailers, and creators who will introduce and allow you to test new products, benefit from exclusive discounts and offers, and participate in informative seminars and entertainment.
Gones Games Zone
This year’s Lyon Fair theme is ‘the game’! Explore the Gones Games area for an immersive experience filled with discoveries and exciting competitions.
From March 30th to April 1st, connect with schools, researchers, game creators and publishers, artists, Esports associations, brands, and equipment manufacturers, among many others.
Benefits for Business Professionals
While the Lyon Fair draws numerous French and international visitors, this premier event also presents significant advantages for professionals.
Whether you’re an exhibitor or seeking innovative concepts for your business, the Lyon Fair offers unparalleled opportunities to forge new contacts, establish fresh partnerships, attract new clients, and strengthen relationships with existing ones.
Participating in the fair will also contribute to boosting your revenue and enhancing your brand recognition and image. Indeed, being part of the most significant event in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and the third-largest fair in France guarantees substantial media exposure.
Finally, by attending the Lyon Fair, you’ll also be performing a good deed, as all proceeds from tickets purchased on March 25th will be donated to the Les Réseaux du Coeur Association.
Your Serene Retreat: Camping Near Lyon During the Fair
Barolles campsite, strategically located near Lyon, is more than just a family-friendly destination; it’s an ideal year-round accommodation solution for your employees. Its close proximity to the metropolis provides a perfect balance of urban convenience and natural tranquility. After a busy day at the fair, your team can retreat to comfortable lodging, just a short distance from Lyon’s bustling center.
Despite its accessibility to Lyon, our campsite offers an exceptional natural setting. Whether in a mobile home, tent, campervan, caravan, or bungalow, your family or employees can revel in nature’s embrace, mere steps from the city.
Enjoy the fresh air and rejuvenate outdoors, all while remaining connected to public transport via Metro B. Our campsite near Lyon is conveniently located a short walk from the subway, allowing for effortless travel to the Lyon Fair via public transport.