There are certain spots in Lyon that you pass by without really being able to enter. And then there's the Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules, this ancient setting nestled on the slopes of Croix-Rousse, which is set to become one of the coolest places in the city for the spring season. From April 25th until June 21st, 2026, the La Basse Cour festival makes its grand return for a 7th edition that’s filled with the delightful vibes of summer evenings ahead of time.
Organized by Le Nid de Poule, the event once again relies on an utterly irresistible formula: accessible shows for everyone, an ultra-relaxed atmosphere, and most importantly... completely free entry. And honestly, watching a show in an open-air Roman amphitheater with a drink in hand has that delightful taste of Italian summer vacations without the need to travel!
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Theater, clown, cabaret: culture for the masses
Here, there's no red carpet or complicated codes. La Basse Cour wants to break down the barriers around live performances. The festival mainly features young companies from Lyon and the surrounding regions.with the idea of providing them with a true artistic springboard. This year, the lineup promises to tackle very current topics such as anxiety, grief, gender-based violence, activism, and the need to create connections. But beware: there’s no intention of bringing the mood down.
The festival champions joyful, accessible, and lively forms that can provoke thought while still keeping things entertaining. On the agenda: street theater, clown performances, cabaret, artistic performances, gigantic karaoke, and even a grand musical evening scheduled for June 21 to wrap up the event in a spectacular cultural fireworks style. A delightful mix of Avignon off, summer guinguette, and a get-together with friends.
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A giant terrace to enjoy Lyon's evenings
The true strength of La Basse Cour lies in its ultra-free spirit. Here, you don’t need to book weeks in advance or stay glued to a chair for two hours. Spectators can come and go, grab a drink, or simply soak in the atmosphere. From Tuesday to Saturday, between 6 PM and 11 PM, the venue features a large terrace with a bar and light snacks. Shows kick off at 8:30 PM, just when the golden light falls on the ancient stones of the theater. And honestly, when it comes to decor, it doesn’t get much better than this.
The festival fully embraces its desire to make culture more spontaneous and less intimidating. It’s a smart way to reach those who may never step into a traditional performance space.