Christmas 2026 in Lyon: An Enchanting Festive Season at InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu
Léo’s First Christmas: The Magic of Christmas 2026 in Lyon
This year, Christmas takes on a special meaning at InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu. Nestled in the heart of the historic Grand Hôtel-Dieu, the hotel invites guests to embrace a festive season filled with childhood wonder, cherished moments and culinary delights.
For Christmas 2026 in Lyon, the hotel unveils an enchanting world inspired by “Léo’s First Christmas”, celebrating its beloved lion mascot. This magical theme comes to life through an exclusive pastry creation, complemented by festive dining experiences at Epona restaurant, Le Dôme Bar and L’Académie. A delightful invitation to celebrate the final moments of 2026 and welcome the New Year.
Once Upon a Time, There Was a Little Lion Named Léo…
Originally from Tanzania, at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, Léo travelled thousands of miles before discovering Lyon. Captivated by the city’s rich heritage and gastronomy, he decided to make InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu his new home.
This year, Léo celebrates his very first Christmas in Lyon. To mark this special occasion, the hotel brings back the wonder of childhood Christmases: twinkling lights, presents beneath the tree, joyful family reunions and festive treats shared with loved ones.
An enchanting story that comes to life within the historic Grand Hôtel-Dieu, inspiring Pastry Chef Vincent Thomassin to create a Christmas masterpiece as indulgent as it is meaningful.
Christmas and New Year’s Celebrations at Epona Restaurant
For the festive season, Epona restaurant invites guests to gather around beautifully prepared tables and share memorable moments in the elegant setting of the Grand Hôtel-Dieu.
On Christmas Eve, December 24, 2026, Epona offers a festive dinner celebrating fine dining and the pleasure of being together.
The celebrations continue on Christmas Day, December 25, with a special lunch where contemporary French cuisine meets cherished festive traditions.
To celebrate New Year’s Eve in Lyon, Epona welcomes guests on December 31, 2026, for an elegant dinner. A wonderful opportunity to savour the final moments of the year in a refined and welcoming atmosphere.
Célébrer la fin d’année sous la majestueuse coupole du bar Le Dôme
Le bar Le Dôme vous invite à célébrer les fêtes de fin d’année dans un cadre d’exception, où patrimoine et élégance contemporaine se rencontrent.
Pour le réveillon du Nouvel An, le 31 décembre 2026, Le Dôme propose un menu spécialement imaginé pour célébrer les derniers instants de l’année dans une atmosphère festive et raffinée.
Puis, les célébrations se prolongent le 1er janvier 2027, autour d’un brunch du Nouvel An. Une invitation gourmande à débuter l’année sous l’emblématique coupole du Grand Hôtel-Dieu.
Festive Gatherings at L’Académie
For corporate celebrations, the event and reception spaces at L’Académie offer a prestigious setting in the heart of the Grand Hôtel-Dieu.
Discover our specially designed festive offers for corporate Christmas lunches, festive evenings and end-of-year business events in Lyon, combining fine dining, conviviality and the art of hospitality.
For event enquiries and bookings, please contact our team at +33 4 26 99 23 50 or by email at sales.lyon@ihg.com.
A Christmas Yule Log by Vincent Thomassin, Inspired by Léo’s First Christmas
An Indulgent Creation Inspired by Lyon’s Heritage
To celebrate Léo’s First Christmas, Vincent Thomassin, Pastry Chef at Epona restaurant, has created an exclusive Christmas Yule log paying tribute to Lyon’s rich heritage.
Inspired by the iconic equestrian statue of Louis XIV in Place Bellecour, this creation transforms the monument’s pedestal into an edible masterpiece, with Léo taking pride of place. A charming tribute to the little lion’s journey and his new home in Lyon.
As for the flavours, hazelnut, popcorn and caramel come together in a comforting combination, evoking the sweetness of childhood memories.
Conceived as a warm embrace, this indulgent creation invites families to rediscover the simple pleasures of Christmas through a dessert made for sharing.
Practical Information
Price: €79 for 6 to 8 people.
Availability: Limited edition of 70 Yule logs.
Order deadline: December 20, 2026 (inclusive).
Collection: At Epona restaurant, InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu. Please confirm your preferred collection date at least 72 hours in advance.
Orders and enquiries: +33 4 26 99 24 24 or reservationrestauration.lyon@ihg.com.
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