On the occasion of the Holiday season, the façade of Reims cathedral is magically enhanced by a visual and audio scenography: the Rêve de Couleurs light show. Thanks to the photos taken by the talented Frédéric Leroux, discover the majestic Gothic façade of the Notre-Dame de Reims in a new light!
The Rêve de Couleurs light show at Reims cathedral
At nightfall, the free show brings back to life the shapes and sculptures of the cathedral. This jewel of Gothic architecture is impressive for the great number of statues that are found on the West façade. The historic sanctuary is part of the three Unesco-listed sites in Reims alongside the Tau Palace and the former St. Rémi abbey.
A show by Skertzò
This technological achievement was elaborated by creators Hélène Richard and Jean-Michel Quesne, founders of the creative workshop Skertzò. The show reveals in a new light the magnificent western front of the Reims cathedral.
Through a Dream of Colours, Skertzò restitutes the colours that once covered the façade of the cathedral. This light show is just stunning: cutting-edge technology makes use of trompe-l’œil and optical illusion. The colourisation of the cathedral was well-thought-out to be fun, magical and educational. It tells a story by sending light onto the cathedral front.
The Rêve de couleurs light show: a great success
Launched in 2011, the Rêve de couleurs light show in Reims is a major popular success. The first edition was created to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the laying of the cathedral’s foundation stone. Since then, the light show has been seen by more than a million people.
The show lasts 25 min and takes place at night. It includes two shows (around 6-6.25 pm and 9-9.25 pm). However, the times are changing depending on certain days. A projection with fixed polychromy decorates the façade between the two performances.
Find out more about the dates and hours of the Rêve de Couleur light show (2016 edition).
Christmas in Reims
Go for a stroll on the lanes of the Reims Christmas market. Made up of 140 chalets, it is situated on the forecourt of the cathedral and the adjacent streets.
Then continue you walk on the shopping precinct at nightfall to admire the Christmas lights.
Don’t miss the Christmas Ferris wheel on the Place du Forum before heading up to the Christmas Funfair on the Hautes Promenades.
More info about Reims Cathedral!
Here are a few websites and blogs about Reims Cathedral that you might find useful:
- on the blog: The coronation of the Kings of France in Reims
- the official website of the cathedral of Reims [in French only]
- the website of the Reims Tourist Board
- the site of Centre des Monuments Historiques for climbing to the cathedral’s Towers.
- to book your accommodation in Reims, click on this affiliate link which will redirect you to our partner booking.com
- Wikipedia’s article on Reims Cathedral
The cathedral is open every day from 7.30 am to 7.30 pm (7.15 pm on Sunday and celebration days). No visits on Sunday morning from 9 am-12 pm during masses. The entrance is free.
Things to do in Reims and Champagne
Looking for activities and things to do in Reims and the surrounding region of Champagne? Check out the offers from our partner Get Your Guide:
Inspired? Then pin it for later!
French Moments would like to thank Frédéric Leroux for giving us the opportunity to share his photos on this page (and featured image). You can reach Frédéric’s website here or join his Facebook page.
