The annual happening in Amsterdam is upon us, the Amsterdam Light Festival. A place for art and legacy in 2025. 27 works of art throughout Amsterdam with the theme for edition 14: Legacy. But what is it really and why do they do this every year? In this blog I will tell you all about the non-profit ANBI-organization, and why they do what they do.
The history of the Amsterdam Light Festival,
The Amsterdam Light Festival is an annual festival since 2012 that takes place around the turn of the year, this year from November 27, 2025 through January 18, 2026. During this period, impressive light artworks are exhibited around Amsterdam, this year there are 27. By both Dutch and international artists. Each year has a different theme. The theme of edition 13 was Rituals. The festival acts as a stage for both well-known and emerging artists, they can use this happening to exhibit their talents.
Legacy connects generations
Preparations for Edition 14 are in full swing. Artists are putting the final touches on their designs, and the perfect locations are being scouted. This year is all about legacy. How do we want to be remembered? How do we envision the future? What do we pass on to the generations after us?
The official theme will be announced soon, but one thing is certain: the artworks will once again offer an inspiring and unifying experience. The route leads through the heart of Amsterdam, with installations on, next to, and in the city’s iconic canals. You can experience the works by boat, bike, or on foot.
27 artworks, 23 artists.
Rituals are brought to life in this edition. Some artworks will be about how important rituals are to nature, such as Solstice by Studio Vertigo and Mirror Moon which shows the different phases of the moon in a different rhythm, created by Arnout Meijer. But also how rituals are part of human life, this will be shown through impressive artworks such as The Ice Masters House, how skating on natural ice is an annual Dutch ritual, created by Soyoun Kim.
Extra experiences
This year there are extra experiences available to make your ALF extra special. At places like the Stoperaplein, the Light Garden and the IAmsterdam store extra information will be told about the artworks and the Amsterdam Light Festival itself, to make sure you can get all the information you need.In addition, this year also a special culinary experience is offered: the Foodwalk, with an le Foodwalk ticket you can enjoy 5 special bites and a drink at affiliated restaurants.
The sustainability Manifesto
Every year the light artworks of the Amsterdam Light Festival exhibit a new story, but something that will never change is the commitment to a minimal footprint.The festival, alongside over 20 other festivals in Europe, has signed the ILO Sustainability Manifesto, this manifesto was created by the international industry association: International Lightfestival Organization to contribute to the sustainability of Light festivals worldwide. For more information on sustainable Light Festivals, click here.
By land or by sea:
There are several ways to experience the event. Walkable, the walking route is 6.5 kilometers long.
The walking route starts at the Central Station, passes through the Nieuwe Herengracht to the Herengracht and then through the Haarlemmersluis, back at start, the Central Station. Amsterdam Boat Experience, subsidiary of Flagship Amsterdam, is also making its boats available to experience the Amsterdam Light Festival, leisurely, from the water. Along with a complementary wine, beer or glass of Glühwein to make your experience warm and complete.
Will we see you for the Amsterdam Light Festival? We can’t wait!
Book your Amsterdam Light Festival cruise here!
