A drone show to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Institution des Chartreux in Lyon
A bicentennial celebrated with eyes turned toward the sky
An extraordinary event calls for a celestial celebration. To mark its 200th anniversary, the Institution des Chartreux has chosen to light up the skies over Lyon with a one-of-a-kind drone show, designed to leave a lasting impression and pay tribute to two centuries of dedication to education.
A Week of Celebrations for the Institution
From May 21 to 25, 2025, the Institution des Chartreux, a private institution in Lyon founded in 1825, celebrated its bicentennial in grand style. Watch the video of the colorful show here:
A full week of festivities brought together students, parents, teachers, alumni, staff, partners, and elected officials. The atmosphere was steeped in history and pride.
Exhibitions, lectures, moments of reflection, and festive celebrations marked this symbolic week for the entire educational community.
Three evenings of emotion, illuminated by light
On May 21, 22, and 23, 2025, around 10 p.m., the Croix-Rousse hill was lit up.
A total of nearly 1,000 spectators over the three days—gathered around the Institution, as well as along the banks of the Saône and all the way to Fourvière—looked up at the sky, which was brought to life by 200 drones. A poetic and deeply moving show that highlighted the school’s symbols, followed by a spectacular fireworks display by Pyragric. Each evening was a moment suspended in time, where the sky became a canvas and collective memory, a living work of art.
A drone show celebrating 200 years of heritage
A 13-scene production, conceived in collaboration with the Institution des Chartreux
This approximately 10-minute aerial show was designed in close collaboration with the Chartreux team. Thirteen light-filled scenes captured the essence of the school, particularly its commitment to education, art, and culture. Each scene was carefully designed to convey the institution’s DNA through a universal visual language.
Symbols and emblems, depicted by Allumee drones
Among the images projected onto the Lyon sky were a dove, a flickering candle, the Chartreux Chapel, musical instruments, and the school’s logo, celebrating its 200th anniversary. Each image embodied the essence of a special tribute, and the “wow” factor was immediate… judging by the spectators’ reactions and applause. The poetry of the shapes, the precision of the movements, and the synchronization with the music turned each scene into a truly collective emotional experience.
200 drones, 200 years, 1 vision
In a highly symbolic way, this “Hybrid” light show featuring 200 drones allowed us to perfectly showcase the venue’s image through custom-designed scenes and well-crafted storytelling. The soundtrack was also chosen to evoke poetry and inspiration, featuring music composed by Ludovico Einaudi… goosebumps guaranteed!
This project has shown that tradition and innovation can coexist within the same celebration, using technology to bring history to life.
A highlight for the Allumee team
A drone show in Lyon: a truly special experience
This project wasn’t just another event for us. Flying our drones right here in Lyon was a wonderful opportunity to showcase our expertise in our hometown. In fact, part of the team was on the banks of the Saône to enjoy the show. Sharing this moment with the people of Lyon and taking part in the tribute to such an iconic institution was not only an honor for Allumee but also a moment of collective pride.
