The largest pedestrian square in France is finally getting a sweet break. Starting July 5, 2025, the city of Lyon is set to inject a bit of life and a lot of sugar into Place Bellecour by installing three sweet food bikes every weekend throughout the summer. A call for applications has been launched to select these lucky mobile stand operators, with a simple mission: to make the heart of the Presqu'île livelier, more local, and definitely sweeter.
Is Place Bellecour the new gourmet destination in Lyon?
On the menu for this refreshing initiative are take-away treats that smell like vacation: artisan ice creams, waffles, fluffy crepes, and non-alcoholic drinks. All of this, of course, is part of an eco-friendly approach, because here, strawberry syrup doesn't flow over single-use plastic. Candidates will need to focus on short supply chains, seasonal products, and recyclable packaging – or even better, returnable packaging. No running water, no electricity, just a healthy dose of ingenuity.
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This animation complements the work Urban Weavings, which has already been visible since spring, and aims to re-enchant Place Bellecour.
, often criticized for its somewhat concrete-heavy atmosphere and not being very human-friendly. The challenge is clear: to turn this big urban desert into a spot where it’s nice to hang out, stroll around… and nibble on treats. If all goes well, we might just fall in love with this new way of making the public space our own. And honestly, who could say no to a waffle in the sun, feet on the pavement but head in summer bliss?
Source: Lyon Capitale
