Chartres In Lights: Marvelous Illuminations
Since 2003, the city of Chartres has been illuminating its main monuments from April to October. This spectacular event, called Chartres en lumières, is a great outing for the whole family. And what's more, it's free!
A magical stroll
"Chartres in Lights" is the not-to-be-missed event every summer in the downtown area of Chartres. Throughout the season, a nighttime journey offers visitors the chance to rediscover the city's monuments, illuminated and set to music.
This spectacular sound and light show was initiated in 2003 to highlight the architectural heritage of the city, starting with its magnificent cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
Chartres, also known for the quality of its stained glass, naturally made light the central theme of this event.
2024 Edition
Once again this year, numerous illuminated sites can be discovered in the downtown area of Chartres from April to October.
To be illuminated are the famous Chartres Cathedral, of course, but also the former episcopal palace, churches, bridges, wash houses along the Eure river, the Italian-style theater, the multimedia library, not to mention the streets and squares of the upper town. These creations bear the signatures of the greatest names in the field.
New scenographies to discover include:
the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Notre-Dame Cathedral: the royal portal, the north portal, and the south portal;
the former episcopal palace: the ceremonial facade of the Museum of Fine Arts;
the Italian-style theater, the Montescot hotel;
the Saint-André collegiate church, the bridges and wash houses along the Eure, the Saint-Aignan church, and the facade of the Departmental Council, Place Châtelet.
Practical information
The 21st edition of Chartres in Lights takes place from April 13, 2024 to January 5, 2025.
Hours
Every night from dusk until 1 a.m.
Rate
Free.
Good to know
To make the most of this route, download the event's free, geolocated app.
More information on the official website below.
