Lyon Back-to-School Activities: A Comprehensive Guide for Families
As September approaches, Lyon’s arrondissements host a series of community events to help families find the perfect extracurricular activities for children and teens. From martial arts to theater workshops, these forums and MJC (Maison des Jeunes et des Associations) sessions offer a wide range of options, with registration details and dates varying by district.
Lyon 2: Gymnase Louis Chanfray Forum
Families in Lyon’s 2nd arrondissement can explore over 60 local associations at the Gymnase Louis Chanfray on September 5th. Sports enthusiasts will find karate, capoeira, and judo classes, while the MJC Presqu’île Confluence offers online registration via GoAsso. The event runs from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
Lyon 3: Place Charles de Gaulle and MJC Montchat
The 3rd arrondissement’s Forum des Associations on September 5th features over 100 clubs spanning sports, culture, and education. Meanwhile, MJC Montchat has accepted online registrations since July for activities like dance, theater, and circus arts. Parents can also visit the Maison Pour Tous des Rancy on the same day for a broad range of creative and physical programs.
Lyon 4: Salle de la Ficelle Rendezvous
On the Croix-Rousse plateau, the Salle de la Ficelle hosts a September 5th forum showcasing local sports clubs and cultural groups. Activities include music, dance, and hands-on workshops for children, with sessions open from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Lyon 5: Parc de la Mairie and Vieux Lyon MJC
The 5th arrondissement’s Parc de la Mairie will gather nearly 100 associations on September 12th, covering sports, environmental initiatives, and arts. The MJC Vieux-Lyon, located at Place Saint-Jean, offers online registration for theater, music, and leisure programs, with parent information sessions on September 15th.

Lyon 6: Place Edgar Quinet Forum
Residents of the 6th arrondissement can explore local clubs at the Place Edgar Quinet on September 12th. The event includes demonstrations, a food court, and opportunities to connect with sports, cultural, and charitable organizations.
Lyon 7: Gymnase Clémenceau and Jean Macé MJC
The 7th arrondissement’s Gymnase Clémenceau hosts a September 5th forum featuring 150 associations, from rock climbing to community groups. The MJC Jean Macé, open from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, provides in-person registration for arts, music, and leisure activities.
Lyon 8: Monplaisir and MJC Monplaisir
The 8th arrondissement’s Place Ambroise-Courtois forum on September 6th includes over 100 local groups. The MJC Monplaisir, open from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM on September 5th, offers classes in hip-hop, pottery, and theater for children and teens.

Lyon 9: Place Ferber and Duchère MJC
Families in the 9th arrondissement can visit Place Ferber on September 12th to discover sports and cultural programs.
Parents are advised to bring their CAF certificate to qualify for income-based discounts at most venues. With events spanning September 5th to 12th, Lyon’s community centers aim to simplify the search for enriching activities for young learners.
Worth a look