On Monday, April 21, 2025, Easter Monday, many residents in Lyon and its metropolitan area found themselves navigating a unique shopping landscape as most major shopping centers remained open despite the holiday. This day, traditionally marked by family gatherings and festive activities, saw a blend of open and closed businesses, creating a mosaic of options for consumers.
In Lyon, the major shopping destinations operated under varied hours, providing convenience for those looking to make the most of the long weekend. Westfield La Part-Dieu welcomed shoppers from 10 AM to 8 PM, while Confluence followed suit with the same hours. The Grand Hôtel Dieu was open, although some boutiques within the center were closed, and Carré de Soie in Vaulx-en-Velin operated from 10 AM to 7 PM.
For those venturing into the city center, Printemps was open from 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM, and both Galeries Lafayette locations in Bron and Part-Dieu were accessible from 10 AM to 8 PM. Several Auchan supermarkets also opened their doors, including the Centre Auchan Caluire from 10 AM to 7 PM and Centre Auchan Saint-Priest – Porte des Alpes, which operated from 10 AM to 7 PM, with Auchan itself opening earlier at 8:30 AM.
However, not all commercial spaces were open. The Centre Ecully Grand Ouest remained closed, and while the Centre commercial Saint-Genis 2 had its Auchan open from 8:30 AM to 8 PM, other boutiques opened later at 10 AM and closed by 7 PM. Similarly, the Centre Les 7 Chemins Carrefour in Vaulx-en-Velin had boutiques operating from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM, while the supermarket was open until 9 PM.
In addition to shopping centers, several large home improvement and decoration stores were also available to the public. Leroy Merlin Lyon Grand Parilly was open from 9 AM to 8 PM, Castorama locations in Bron and Rillieux-la-Pape operated from 7 AM to 8 PM and 8 AM to 8 PM respectively, and IKEA Lyon Grand Parilly was open from 10 AM to 8 PM.
While consumers in Lyon enjoyed the opportunity to shop, the broader context of Easter Monday in France revealed a more complex picture. Since 1801, Easter Monday has been a public holiday, offering a break after the weekend festivities. However, unlike other public holidays where closures are mandatory, this day presents a patchwork of openings and closures across the country.
In Paris, for instance, food markets were generally canceled, leaving many without their usual options for fresh produce. Public transport also followed a holiday schedule akin to Sundays, leading to reduced services across the Île-de-France region. Passengers were cautioned about significant construction work affecting major lines, including RER B, C, and D, as well as Transilien K, N, and U, from April 19 to April 21, 2025.
Despite these challenges, cultural venues such as cinemas remained open, providing an entertainment outlet for those looking to enjoy a film on their day off. Across France, cinemas operated under regular hours, allowing audiences to catch the latest releases or revisit beloved classics. However, municipal museums in Paris, like the Carnavalet Museum and the Petit Palais, were closed, while major attractions like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay typically remained accessible.
For fitness enthusiasts, many gyms, including chains like Basic-Fit and Fitness Park, were open, albeit with adjusted hours. Some facilities opened later in the day, particularly those located within shopping centers that were closed. Municipal swimming pools in Paris, on the other hand, largely opened their doors, providing a refreshing option for those looking to swim on the holiday.
As people sought ways to enjoy the day, many turned to outdoor activities. Parks and gardens remained open, offering a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a family outing. Despite the mixed bag of closures, the day encouraged creativity in planning, with families considering alternatives such as treasure hunts or creative workshops at local cultural centers.
The essence of Easter Monday transcends mere shopping; it symbolizes a moment to slow down and appreciate life’s simple pleasures, whether in the company of family, friends, or in quiet solitude. The day also reflects societal disparities, with some individuals working in essential services while others enjoyed a well-deserved break.
Ultimately, the 21st of April, 2025, served as a reminder of the diversity in how people choose to spend their time during holidays. Whether indulging in retail therapy, catching a movie, or simply enjoying a day outdoors, the significance of Easter Monday lies in its ability to foster connections and create lasting memories.
