Beaujolais Nouveau 2026: where to celebrate in Lyon and Beaujolais?
Every year, the third Thursday of November marks an unmissable date for wine lovers: the release of Beaujolais Nouveau. More than just a wine launch, it is a celebration of conviviality that brings Lyon, the Beaujolais wine region and wine enthusiasts around the world together.
In 2026, Beaujolais Nouveau will officially be released on Thursday, November 19. To mark the occasion, several days of festivities will take place from November 18 to 22, with wine tastings, live music, food markets and opportunities to meet local winemakers.
Are you visiting Lyon in November, or planning a trip to discover the Beaujolais vineyards? Here is our selection of events you shouldn't miss, along with our tips for making the most of this much-loved French wine tradition.
1. Beaujolais Nouveau: a french wine tradition and celebration
Before exploring the festivities, let's take a closer look at what makes Beaujolais Nouveau so special.
Beaujolais Nouveau is a vin primeur, a young wine released just a few weeks after the grape harvest. Its release traditionally takes place on the third Thursday of November, a date that has become a major event in the French wine calendar.
Made primarily from Gamay Noir à Jus Blanc, the signature grape variety of the Beaujolais region, it is generally appreciated for its fresh, fruity character and easy-drinking style.
There are two main appellations:
Beaujolais Nouveau: wines produced within the Beaujolais appellation area.
Beaujolais-Villages Nouveau: wines from a more restricted production area, covering the municipalities classified under the Beaujolais-Villages appellation.
Beaujolais Nouveau is produced in both red and rosé styles. However, it should not be confused with the ten Beaujolais Crus, including Morgon, Fleurie, Moulin-à-Vent and Juliénas, which offer a very different expression of the region's terroirs.
Beyond the wine itself, the annual release has become a symbol of sharing and celebration. It is also an opportunity to highlight the work of local winemakers and showcase the diversity of a wine region that has much more to offer than its famous early-release wines.
2. Where to celebrate Beaujolais Nouveau 2026 in Lyon?
Lyon has a special relationship with Beaujolais. Located just a short drive from the vineyards, France's gastronomic capital is one of the best places to celebrate the arrival of the new vintage.
Every year, many Lyon wine bars, restaurants and wine shops organise tastings and special events. One celebration, however, stands out in particular.
Beaujol'en Scène: 30 years of celebration at Place des Terreaux
For its 30th edition, Beaujol'en Scène returns to the heart of Lyon, at Place des Terreaux, on November 18 and 19, 2026.
Since 1996, this event has celebrated the arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau with a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
The anniversary programme includes:
Tastings of Beaujolais Nouveau wines.
A parade of decorated vintage tractors.
Live music, entertainment and a brass band.
The traditional barrel-rolling event.
The midnight tapping of the new vintage.
Additional entertainment and a music quiz on Thursday evening.
On Wednesday, November 18, festivities begin at 6 pm and continue until 1 am. On Thursday, November 19, the festival village opens its doors again from 6 pm.
It is a fantastic opportunity to experience the Beaujolais spirit without even leaving Lyon!
Practical information:
Dates: November 18–19, 2026.
Location: Place des Terreaux, Lyon 1st arrondissement.
Announced ticket prices: €20–€25.
Lyon's wine bars and restaurants
Beyond Beaujol'en Scène, many wine bars, independent wine merchants and restaurants across Lyon also celebrate the arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau.
It is a great opportunity to discover wines from independent producers, compare different styles and enjoy food pairings inspired by Lyon's renowned local cuisine.
To continue exploring Lyon's wine scene, take a look at our selection of the 10 Best Wine Bars in Lyon.
3. Where to celebrate Beaujolais Nouveau in the Beaujolais wine region
While Lyon offers a fantastic festive atmosphere, nothing compares to experiencing the celebrations right in the heart of the vineyards.
At this time of year, Beaujolais villages come alive with events celebrating the release of the new vintage. It is also a wonderful opportunity to discover the vineyards after the harvest and meet the people who bring this wine region to life.
Les Sarmentelles de Beaujeu: five days of festivities in the heart of Beaujolais
You cannot talk about Beaujolais Nouveau without mentioning Les Sarmentelles de Beaujeu.
Located in the heart of the wine region, Beaujeu is considered the historic capital of Beaujolais. Every year, the town hosts this iconic event, welcoming locals, visitors and wine lovers from around the world.
In 2026, Les Sarmentelles will take place from Wednesday, November 18 to Sunday, November 22.
The programme includes:
Wine-tasting trails through the streets of the village.
Gourmet markets and local food experiences.
Live music and festive evenings.
A wine fair bringing together local producers.
Special meals showcasing Beaujolais gastronomy.
Visits and activities celebrating the region.
One of the most eagerly anticipated moments takes place on the night between Wednesday, November 18 and Thursday, November 19.
At 11 pm, a torchlight procession makes its way through the village before the traditional tapping of the Beaujolais Nouveau at midnight. Visitors then have the opportunity to taste the 2026 vintage.
It is a particularly memorable experience for anyone looking to discover the festive spirit and traditions of Beaujolais.
Practical information:
Dates: November 18–22, 2026.
Location: Beaujeu, Rhône department, France.
Programme and tickets: www.sarmentelles.fr.
The international Beaujolais marathon: running through the vineyards
Another major November event is the International Beaujolais Marathon.
On November 21 and 22, 2026, this sporting and festive event returns for its 22nd edition.
The concept? Discover Beaujolais in a different way, running through picturesque villages, vineyards and wine estates in an incredibly friendly atmosphere.
Several race formats are available, making it possible for both experienced runners and casual participants to take part. I have done it in 2023 and that was such a great and fun experience!
The marathon is particularly famous for its entertainment along the routes, festive refreshment stations and runners dressed in colourful costumes.
On Saturday, November 21, the marathon route will notably connect Fleurie and Villefranche-sur-Saône. A Beaujolais Nouveau barrel-tapping ceremony is also scheduled in Villefranche from 6 pm.
Even if you are not taking part in the race, it is well worth experiencing the atmosphere and discovering the region from a different perspective.
Practical information:
Dates: November 21–22, 2026.
Location: Various villages across Beaujolais, with the Marathon Village in Villefranche-sur-Saône.
Programme and registration: www.marathondubeaujolais.org.
Wine estates: a different way to celebrate Beaujolais Nouveau
Beyond the major festivals, November is also a wonderful time to visit local wine estates.
Some winemakers organise open days, tastings, special meals and events to introduce visitors to their latest wines.
It is a more intimate and personal way to discover Beaujolais.
You will have the opportunity to meet the producers, learn about their winemaking methods and explore the different expressions of Gamay.
And why not take this opportunity to discover more than just Beaujolais Nouveau?
The region's appellations offer remarkable diversity. From the pink granite soils of Fleurie to the complex terroirs of Morgon and the distinctive soils of Moulin-à-Vent, each Beaujolais Cru has its own identity.
This diversity is precisely what makes the region so fascinating to explore.
4. Can you visit the Beaujolais wine region in november?
Absolutely! While spring and summer are often the most popular seasons for vineyard visits, autumn and early winter offer a different yet equally rewarding experience.
After the harvest, the landscapes begin to change colour. The vineyard leaves gradually turn golden, red and brown, while the villages return to a quieter pace of life.
November can also be an excellent time to meet winemakers, who may have more time to introduce visitors to their work and wines, depending on their individual schedules.
A day exploring Beaujolais could include:
Visiting several wine estates and meeting their winemakers.
Enjoying guided tastings of wines from different appellations.
Having lunch at a restaurant showcasing local produce and seasonal cuisine.
Discovering the region's picturesque villages and iconic vineyard landscapes.
For travellers staying in Lyon, Beaujolais is particularly accessible. In less than an hour by car, you can reach several wine-producing areas and enjoy a genuine countryside escape.
However, I recommend booking ahead, particularly for winery visits and restaurant reservations.
5. How to plan your trip to enjoy Beaujolais Nouveau
If you are planning to visit Lyon or Beaujolais during this period, a few practical tips will help you make the most of your stay.
Choose accommodation in Lyon or in the heart of the vineyards.
Lyon is an excellent base for exploring the region. You can enjoy its outstanding food scene, wine bars and cultural heritage while remaining close to the vineyards.
For a more immersive experience, you can also choose to stay in one of the charming villages of Beaujolais.
Plan your transportation in advance.
November's celebrations attract many visitors. If you are planning to attend several wine tastings, make sure you organise your transportation ahead of time and choose a designated driver who will not be drinking.
Don't limit yourself to Beaujolais Nouveau.
This is probably our most important piece of advice!
Beaujolais Nouveau is a wonderful introduction to the region, but it represents only a small part of the diversity of its wines.
Make the most of your stay to discover the Beaujolais Crus, meet independent winemakers and taste wines made using different approaches to winemaking, including organic, biodynamic and natural wine production.
6. Discover Beaujolais differently with Beaujolais Wine Experiences
Are you staying in Lyon and looking to make the most of your time in the region by discovering the Beaujolais vineyards?
At Beaujolais Wine Experiences, I create private, tailor-made wine experiences departing from Lyon.
My approach is built around a carefully selected network of independent wineries, including some hidden gems that are not usually open to the general public, where meeting the winemakers is at the heart of the experience.
I particularly enjoy introducing our guests to producers committed to organic, biodynamic and natural winemaking, as well as local restaurants that showcase seasonal ingredients and regional gastronomy.
Every day is designed around your interests: discovering different appellations, enjoying guided wine tastings, having a gourmet lunch or meeting passionate local producers.
Whether you are travelling as a couple, with friends or with family, I will help you discover Beaujolais beyond the usual tourist routes.
Would you like to discover the wines of Beaujolais during your stay in Lyon?
Discover our Beaujolais Signature Experience and get in touch to plan your private wine experience.
Comments