During the Amsterdam Light Festival, which is held in December and early January, the canals of Amsterdam are lit up by the best light artists from Holland and abroad. You can enjoy the best works and art installations in Amsterdam’s inner city for weeks.
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Nathalie Vreeburg ©Nathalie Vreeburg -
Nathalie Vreeburg ©Nathalie Vreeburg
- Beautiful light festival in Amsterdam for seven weeks.
- To be seen on foot and by boat.
- Buy your discount tickets ahead of time.
Every year, Amsterdam’s city center is lit up by dozens of innovative and high quality light art installations from (inter)national artists during the Amsterdam Light Festival. Since 2012, the Amsterdam Light Festival has realized over 200 art works, growing into one of Europe’s principal light art festivals. After the opening, part of the works created specifically for Amsterdam become part of a permanent collection that travels around the world.
For seven weeks in December and January, the works can be admired in the historic inner city daily from 17:00 to 23:00. The festival can be enjoyed by boat, on a bicycle or on foot via several itineraries. All of the works are alight throughout the period, and you can vote for your favorite light installation. The public choice award is awarded to the creator of the winning installation in the last weekend of the festival.
Walk or cycle past the Amsterdam Light Festival
The light installations can be admired in different ways. You can do this on your own or book a guided tour with one of the festival’s official partners. They offer guided cycling and walking tours.
Amsterdam Light Festival from the water
The art installations are even more magical when seen from the water! Their shimmery reflections in the water against the backdrop of the 17th century city center turn it into a memorable experience. There are various boat tour options. Step aboard and be amazed!
Tickets Amsterdam Light Festival
Avoid queues and book your tickets for the Amsterdam Light Festival online. Combine your boat tour with a visit to one of the museums in Amsterdam, for instance, to enjoy the city to the fullest.
The starting point of the Amsterdam Light Festival is across the square from Amsterdam Central Station.
Nearby
The Amsterdam Light Festival is held in the center of Amsterdam, on the canals in the inner city and the Amstel river. Near the starting point of the Amsterdam Light Festival boat tour, you will find Madame Tussaud’s, the Royal Palace on the Dam, Museum ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder, and countless opportunities for shopping.
Editors’ tip: Don’t forget your camera! The art installations make for perfect shots!
