Parilly Racecourse

Parilly Racecourse, known locally as Hippodrome de Parilly, is a gem nestled in the verdant expanse of Parilly Park in Bron, France. Established in 1965, this racecourse was designed to replace the Grand Camp Racecourse, which made way for the campus of La Doua. It stands as a comprehensive equestrian facility, catering to all disciplines in the world of horse racing.

A Rich History of Racing

Parilly Racecourse celebrated its inaugural race day on May 1, 1965, drawing an impressive crowd of 50,000 spectators who gathered in their Sunday best to witness the thrilling events. Since then, the racecourse has become a central hub for horse racing enthusiasts, hosting races from mid-March to early December. During the winter months, the racing action shifts to the Carré De Soie Racecourse.

Both Parilly and Carré De Soie racecourses annually host a stage of the prestigious Grand National du Trot, alternating between the two venues. The Parilly Racecourse is particularly renowned for its family-friendly events held on weekends and public holidays. Among these, the Grande Nocturne stands out as a highlight, taking place at the end of May each year. This event marks the conclusion of the spring meeting and features the Grand Prix de la Ville Bron, awarded by the mayor of Bron. The day culminates in a spectacular fireworks display, heralding the start of the summer season in the region.

A Versatile Venue

Beyond its racing calendar, Parilly Racecourse is a versatile venue that hosts a variety of events throughout the year. For over two decades, it has been the site of the Fête du Livre de Bron, a festival celebrating contemporary literature that attracts around 40,000 visitors each March. This event signals the beginning of the spring meeting at Parilly.

Until 2021, the racecourse was also the location for Bron's Bastille Day fireworks, drawing 10,000 spectators to enjoy the display from the grandstands or the park. The fireworks are now held at Place de la République, but the racecourse continues to be a popular venue for corporate events, seminars, and open-air concerts. In 2022, the racecourse hosted 200 days of events for both professional and private clients.

Since 2021, Parilly Racecourse has also been home to the Fête du Chapelier, a festival celebrating imaginative worlds, organized by the Yggdrasil association. This event, held on the first weekend of September, attracts 15,000 festival-goers and artisans, adding to the racecourse's vibrant calendar of activities.

Dining and Hospitality

Parilly Racecourse boasts several dining options to enhance the visitor experience. The panoramic restaurant, La Table Lyonnaise, offers stunning views of the racecourse and is open on race days. Formerly known as La Cravache D'or, it was previously managed by Maison Borgeot (Restaurant La Tassée) before being taken over by the racecourse's internal catering service in 2022.

The Grand Hall des Parieurs features a snack bar and provides access to the Grand Camp area, where Sunday brunches are a popular attraction. Around the presentation ring, the Bistrot des Écuries serves as a meeting point for the public and professionals alike. This bistro offers both indoor seating and a terrace, making it an ideal spot for summer evenings. The terrace is distinguished by a large brazier, perfect for grilling meats and fish, adding a unique flavor to the dining experience.

Commitment to Sustainability

Parilly Racecourse is committed to environmental sustainability, as evidenced by its certification from the Equures label since 2017. This certification recognizes the racecourse's efforts to respect the environment, protect wildlife and flora, and ensure the well-being of both horses and humans. In 2022, the racecourse achieved a new level of certification, reflecting the ongoing efforts of the Association des Courses Lyonnaises to implement their corporate social responsibility policies.

Among the racecourse's eco-friendly initiatives is the installation of 1,000 cubic meter tanks to collect rainwater from the stables' roofs, which is then used to irrigate the trot tracks. Additionally, water from the horses' showers is collected and filtered through a sedimentation tank, making Parilly Racecourse a pioneer in sustainable practices among French racecourses. Future plans include covering the stables with a structure that supports 5,000 square meters of solar panels, further enhancing the racecourse's green credentials.

In conclusion, Parilly Racecourse is not just a venue for thrilling horse races but a vibrant, multifaceted destination that offers a rich tapestry of events, dining experiences, and a commitment to sustainability. Whether you're a racing enthusiast, a literature lover, or simply looking for a unique day out, Parilly Racecourse promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Bron.