Amsterdam Light Festival

The Amsterdam Light Festival is an annual event held during the winter months. It does not take place on a specific day of the calendar, but the dates are fixed from year to year.

The idea of the festival originated from a private initiative of a few artists, supported by a foundation that has financed the various editions over the years. Today, many cultural organisations, research institutes, private companies and the Amsterdam administration itself participate in the realisation of the event.

Light is a new art form that offers artists new possibilities of expression. Thanks to the LED revolution, artists can experiment with intersections between art and technology. The aim of the Amsterdam Light Festival is precisely to introduce this new art form by presenting the works of artists in a familiar environment for the public.

Festival Routes

Artists, architects and designers from all over the world exhibit their works and light installations every year. The works are divided into two routes, each of which follows its own theme.

• There is a first route called Vaaroute, which consists of an exhibition of large monumental works along the canals that provide a backdrop, so that visitors have the opportunity to get to know the art of light through the play of colours and reflections created by water.
• The other route is called Illuminade, and is a walking tour of about 3 kilometres, featuring interactive installations by emerging artists in the Plantage district.

Almost all works that are presented during the Amsterdam Light Festival are designed and created especially for this event. Artists often experiment with new techniques specifically for these works, and implement concepts they have never used before. The festival organisation welcomes this creative and innovative vein of artists who decide to take part in the event.

Cruises during the Amsterdam Light Festival

One can choose to observe the works of the Vaaroute route by walking along the canals, but the best way to enjoy the light and water spectacle is to join a boat tour. The tours, starting near the Central Station, have various prices depending on the company organising them.

Useful Information

The two exhibition routes Vaaroute and Illuminade respect different dates and opening times, so for more information, it is advisable to consult the event’s official website, where the exact dates of the current edition are also listed.

The works can be admired free of charge by all. For the Illuminade walking tour, it is also possible to book a guide for group visits. If you choose to participate in a boat trip for the Vaaroute route, it is recommended that you book your ticket at least one month in advance of the desired date, due to the high number of visitors.