Best practicesCreated on: 2 April 2026

Lyon (France): Festival focused on river identity and activities engages with the local community

Goal 6.5

Organising temporary or permanent cultural events in port areas.

Challenge(s)

How can citizens' engagement in port activities and development projects be promoted ?

Best Practice

Public awareness and engagement regarding port redevelopment projects are not just important; they are crucial for fostering understanding and dialogue between communities and port authorities. The ‘Des rives et des rêves’ festival in Lyon, a prime example of this, has not only helped citizens embrace their city’s identity but also comprehend the complexities of port management. This festival, which has now expanded nationally to Marseille and Paris, has had a profound impact on the communities it has touched, demonstrating the power of public engagement in port redevelopment projects.

This good practice also includes objective 4.3 (Guaranteeing transparent management of City Port regions and adopting open information systems) of the AIVP’s 2030 Agenda.

Case Study

In 2010, Robin des Villes's non-profit association launched its "Des rives et des rêves" (Riverbanks & Dreams) to redefine the relationship between riverside industrial sites and towns. Lyon's Edouard Herriot Port is the first to benefit from this approach. Despite the port's significance in the region, many residents of Lyon are unfamiliar with it. The event featured boat tours, immersive sound experiences, 'wish cabins,' and 'utopian models.' Its goal was to showcase port operations and gather ideas and input to enhance the site's appeal.

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