Events Not to Miss in Lille in April 2025
As the warmer days arrive, the Lille metropolitan area becomes a playground for lovers of culture, music, and all forms of art. Whether you’re a local or visiting the Hauts-de-France region, April 2025 offers plenty of events: a rich program of festivals, concerts, shows, exhibitions, and family-friendly activities. Follow our plan to make the most of your outings in Lille and surrounding areas in April, and book your tickets now for the month’s highlights.
This spring, take a tour of the best events in Lille with our plan, including concerts, exhibitions, and urban walking ideas.
1. Major Cultural Festivals in Lille and the Metropolis
Video Mapping Festival – A Unique Visual Walk
The Video Mapping Festival returns for its 8th edition in Lille. On April 19, the city transforms into an open-air digital art gallery. Monumental works are projected onto iconic buildings in the city center, such as the Palais Rihour, city hall, and the Théâtre du Nord.
- Date: Friday, April 19, 2025
- Free entry, no reservation required
- Projections begin at nightfall
This festival combines technology, visual arts, and heritage for an immersive experience accessible to everyone, young and old.
Art Deco Spring – Dive into 1930s Heritage
Until the end of April, the Art Deco Spring highlights architectural treasures in Lille, Roubaix, Tourcoing, and Dunkirk. This Art Deco heritage tour includes exhibitions, guided tours, lectures, and urban walks throughout the region.
- Some tours are free, others require booking
- More info on printempsartdeco.fr
- Join the family-friendly events during the April school holidays
TRÉTO XXL Festival in Tourcoing – Culture for All
From March 26 to April 19, 2025, Tourcoing hosts the TRÉTO XXL Festival, an event dedicated to culture and artistic creation. The program includes a live show, concert, screening, children’s workshop, exhibition, and a meeting with a local artist…
Venues include Maison Folie Hospice d’Havré, Théâtre de l’Idéal, libraries, and schools. The 2025 edition is part of the festive Lille3000 program and will also host the contemporary dance performance “Sakke”, an original creation premiering in the region.
- Access: Metro line 2 – Tourcoing Centre station
- Free admission for many events
2. Must-See Concerts
Arena Stade Pierre-Mauroy – Major Artists on Tour
The Arena in Villeneuve-d’Ascq (formerly Stade Pierre-Mauroy) will host several major concerts in April as part of large French tours. Rock, pop, variety, or electronic music: many international artists are expected.
- Book your tickets on official platforms to avoid disappointment.
- Easy access via Metro Line 1 – Hôtel de Ville stop + special shuttles to Arena.
The Splendid, Aéronef, and Lille’s Clubs
For more intimate vibes, head to the clubs and concert halls in the city center:
- The Splendid (Mont-de-Terre neighborhood) for pop-rock concerts
- Aéronef, next to Euralille shopping center, for new musical acts
- Bistrot de Saint-So and Wazemmes’ clubs for an alternative vibe
Many emerging and established artists will make a stop here in April.
3. Shows, Comedy, and Theater in Lille
Theater and Stand-Up in the Best Venues
The theater scene in Lille is thriving in April 2025. Several venues will host comedies, contemporary plays, and stand-up shows:
- Théâtre Sébastopol: headliners in French comedy
- Espace Comédie: rising stars of stand-up
- Spotlight: cabarets, comedy shows, and open mic nights
Some shows are free, but tickets go fast — book ahead.
4. Exhibitions and Family-Friendly Culture
Utopia – Lille3000: Art in the Open
As part of Lille3000, the city continues its Utopia program with art installations, performances, and exhibitions exploring themes of nature, life, and imagination. Artists take over public spaces like Palais des Beaux-Arts, Jean-Baptiste Lebas Park, and Gare Saint Sauveur.
A great way to introduce kids to contemporary art through fun formats.
5. Markets and Flea Markets: Northern Spirit
April marks the return of neighborhood markets in Lille, perfect for discovering local flavors, antiques, and crafts. Enjoy a Sunday stroll around Place de la Nouvelle Aventure or Place du Concert in Vieux-Lille.
These markets are a taste of the major braderie coming in September — the spirit of community, bargain hunting, and discovery is already in the air.
How to Plan Your Outings in April 2025?
- Download a city map or use a transport app (metro, tram, bus, V’Lille)
- Book your tickets early for concerts, festivals, exhibitions, and shows
- Check official websites for updated info (times, prices, access)
- Plan family-friendly outings during the spring school break
- Want more? Explore Roubaix, Tourcoing, or even take a trip to Dunkirk
Conclusion
From concerts and festivals to exhibitions, live shows, comedy, and family activities, Lille becomes a true cultural hotspot in April 2025. This new edition of the spring arts season in Hauts-de-France invites you on an artistic tour through the region — from Roubaix to Tourcoing, with a cultural stop in Dunkirk. Whether you’re a local, music lover, visual art enthusiast, or casual stroller in search of a show or walking route, the city is full of original ideas for going out. Don’t miss your chance to discover or rediscover Lille this spring.
Looking for a place to stay in Lille? Check out our selection of apartments in the city’s top neighborhoods.
Wondering where it’s best to live in Lille? Read our guide to locals’ favorite neighborhoods.
