Guide to Amsterdam’s Famous Light Festival
There is no better experience than walking alongside Amsterdam’s beautiful and historic canals on a chilly winter evening. But what if you could see the city’s iconic waterways transformed into an open-air gallery illuminated by stunning works of light art? Well, you are into the Amsterdam Light Festival.
What is Amsterdam’s Light Festival?
The Amsterdam Light Festival is a much-awaited annual event showcasing internationally acclaimed artists’ beautiful light art. You will get to witness how this event illuminates the city’s canals, monuments, and streets.
The Amsterdam Light Festival story began in 2009 with the Christmas Canal Parade. Rogier van der Heide, Felix Guttmann, Henk Jan Buchel, Raymond Borsboom, and Vincent Horbach were the organisers. What started as a subtle event turned into a light-filled celebration in 2013 and the introduction of the Water Colours theme in 2013-14.
In 2015-2016, Princess Beatrix inaugurated the event to highlight its cultural value. Later, there was an international collaboration to show light artworks globally. By 2016-2017, the festival drew millions of visitors to witness creations by famous architects and artists. The festival’s roots also connect to the Edison Light Week of 1929 in Amsterdam.
Must-See Light Installations at Amsterdam’s Light Festival
- Many installations are interactive, allowing visitors to become part of the art. For example, some installations respond to movement or touch, allowing visitors to play with light and colours.
- You will find large-scale light sculptures dotted around the city, some of which take up entire squares. These installations are rich in detail, mixing light, metal, and other materials to generate a powerful visual presence.
- The festival lights up the famous buildings with projections. The effect of movement and transformation is something you won’t miss.
- Some of the most magical pieces are those set on the water. Floating installations in the canals or nearby docks glow against the dark waters.
Tips to Plan Your Visit to Amsterdam’s Famous Light Festival
If you want your trip to the Light Festival to be a hassle-free experience, remember the following tips.
When to Visit
The Light Festival runs for approximately eight weeks, from late November to mid-January. To avoid crowds, visit on a weekday. For a more relaxed experience, plan your visit during the early weeks of the festival.
How to Visit
You can either take a canal cruise or follow a cycling route. For a cruise, make sure to book your ticket in advance, as prices vary depending on whether you choose an open or heated boat. If cycling, you can explore the various options for free.
Weather Preparation
Amsterdam in winter can be chilly, with temperatures averaging between 3-7°C (37-45°F). Warm clothes are a must, especially if you plan to take a walk or cycle. Don’t forget to bring gloves, a hat, and sturdy waterproof shoes.
Buy Insurance
Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement before you arrive in Amsterdam. Since the Netherlands is a Schengen country, your insurance must provide a minimum medical coverage of €30,000. This requirement is in place to ensure that if the traveller falls ill, they have sufficient financial means to cover medical bills. In the event of death, the insurance should also provide coverage for repatriating the remains of the policyholder to their home country.
You can easily buy this coverage through a travel insurance app of your preferred insurer.
Beyond the Festival: Things to Do in Winter in Amsterdam
Other than enjoying the Light Festival, here is a list of things to do when in Amsterdam:
- Fly to the Rijksmuseum to explore museums known for their antique collections and architecture. You must also enjoy winter ice skating.
- Drive to the 9 Streets, a popular shopping area. You can also visit quaint cafes, small boutiques, and art galleries featuring works by local artists.
- Visit the Anne Frank House. You will have a touching experience learning about the challenges Jewish families faced under the Nazis.
- They say that Dutch cuisine is specially made for the winter season. So, when here, why not taste snert, a ham soup with thick peas, and stamppot, a traditional Dutch mash?
- Drive to Fabrique des Lumières, a theatre located at Westergas. You can enjoy the artwork in an audiovisual way.
Conclusion
The Amsterdam Light Festival offers an unforgettable experience and a chance to see the city in a whole new light—literally. Whether you choose to explore on foot, by bike, or by boat, the installations promise to surprise and inspire. In addition to the Light Festival, there are many other tourist attractions in Amsterdam and several fun activities to enjoy during winter. However, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended for a stress-free trip.
