This winter, Amsterdam is shining brightly as the city hosts the 12th edition of the Amsterdam Light Festival, which began on 28 November 2024 and will continue until 19 January 2025. Featuring approximately 20 illuminated artworks, the festival aligns with Amsterdam's 750th anniversary, making it a special occasion. With the theme ‘Rituals’, the festival explores light as a symbol of transformation, showcasing installations by over 25 artists.
The Festival
For the past 12 years, the Amsterdam Light Festival has been a cherished tradition, bringing light to the city's darkest months. This year's edition holds extra significance as it coincides with Amsterdam's 750th anniversary celebrations. Throughout the year, residents, neighbourhoods, and institutions are honouring the city's rich history and unique spirit. And no better way to commemorate this milestone than through the ritual of light.
For the 13th edition of the Amsterdam Light Festival, artists have been invited to illuminate the theme ‘Rituals’. The result is an enchanting route along Amsterdam's iconic canals, featuring over 25 specially created artworks.
Lit up
The lights switch on daily at 5 pm. From Sunday to Tuesday, they remain lit until 10 pm, and from Wednesday to Saturday until 11 pm. During the Christmas holidays, the lights stay on until 11 pm every night, except on 31 December, 2024 when they were turned off. The festival is easily accessible by bike or public transport. Along the route, one finds several information points and food and drink outlets.
Theme 2024/2025: World of ‘Rituals’
In its 13th edition, the Amsterdam Light Festival invites you to step into the world of ‘Rituals’. With a touch of imagination, the festival unveils a realm where rituals transcend traditions, becoming a vivid celebration of culture, history, and future aspirations. It’s a journey through a world where ancient customs are reimagined, and every ceremony connects the past with our deepest hopes for tomorrow.
Light Festival Cruises
This enchanting theme can be discovered as one explores Amsterdam’s canals - the magic of the Amsterdam Light Festival can be experienced from its best vantage point—the canals. Specially curated canal cruises, open boat tours, drinks-on-board cruises, group events on cruises, private cruises and classic private tours follow the festival's route, giving magnificent views of the artworks.
