Discover the Amsterdam Festival of Lights 2025-2026 🌟
Welcome to Amsterdam, a city famous for its picturesque canals, vibrant culture, and, of course, the spectacular Amsterdam Light Show. Edition 14 of the Amsterdam Light Festival is set to dazzle from November 27, 2025, to January 18, 2026.
The Amsterdam Light Show this year revolves around the theme of legacy, with 27 light artworks aiming to answer questions such as ‘how do we want to be remembered?’ and ‘how do we see our future?’. Imagine the city’s iconic canals and bridges bathed in mesmerizing lights, creating a once-in-a-lifetime magical experience. MEININGER Hotels is right here to ensure your stay is as magical as the festival itself! 🫡
Keep reading to discover how the Amsterdam Light Festival will illuminate your holiday season in ways you never imagined!
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Boat tour: a must-do experience 🛥️
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the Amsterdam Light Festival is through the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Tour. It’s more than just sightseeing; it’s an interactive journey that brings art and city history to life. Cruises last around 75 minutes, departing every 30 minutes between 4:45 and 9:30 PM. Check the festival’s ticket shop for the latest schedule. Remember to book in advance as these tours are a favorite among travelers and locals. If you’d rather walk, check out this walking route for a delightful journey through the lights.
Highlights ⚡
With a 6.5-kilometer route featuring over 27 artworks, including local education projects, the festival illuminates the city from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM daily. The artwork utilizes approximately 15,000 kWh over the 53-day festival, equivalent to the energy consumed during two football matches in a stadium.
From wonderful lantern displays that tell stories to interactive light installations crafted by artists from around the world, there’s something to inspire you. Be sure to stroll around the lantern festival in the Netherlands section, a unique blend of Dutch tradition and contemporary art.
A festive wonderland ❄️
Amsterdam in December transforms into a festive wonderland with Christmas lights adding an extra sparkle to the city’s charm. The festival of lights in Amsterdam extends beyond the official venues and local neighborhoods join in to create a city-wide celebration of light and joy.
Locations 🗺️
The Amsterdam Light Festival location changes every year, offering new perspectives of the city. Key-spots include the iconic canals, historical bridges, and some hidden gems off the beaten path. Keep an eye on the festival’s official website for the latest map and installation details.
Summin’ up…
The Amsterdam Light Show and the Light Festival are experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. Whether you’re cruising on a boat tour, wandering through illuminated streets, or enjoying the comfort of MEININGER Hotels, Amsterdam will be an unforgettable experience.
For more insights on what the Dutch capital has to offer you during the colder months, read our detailed guide on Amsterdam in winter. We will explore the city’s unique charm and activities beyond the Light Festival.
Amsterdam Festival of Lights: FAQs
What is unique about the Amsterdam Light Festival 2025-2026?
The Amsterdam Light Show 2025-2026 revolves around the theme of legacy. During this year's edition, 27 light artworks will shed a unique light on the theme.
When does the Amsterdam Light Festival take place?
The Amsterdam Light Festival runs from November 27, 2025, to January 18, 2026.
What’s the best way to experience the Amsterdam Light Festival?
A boat tour is the most immersive way to experience the festival. Cruising along the canals lets you see the light installations up close. Alternatively, you can walk the 7.5-kilometer route to explore the artworks at your own pace.
How long are the boat tours, and when do they depart?
The boat tours for the Amsterdam Light Festival last around 75 minutes and depart every 30 minutes between 4:45 PM and 9:30 PM. Advance booking is recommended.
What are the highlights of the Lights Festival?
The 2025-2026 Amsterdam Lights Festival features a 6.5-kilometer route with over 27 artworks, including local education projects.
How is Amsterdam transformed during the festival?
During the festival, Amsterdam becomes a festive wonderland, with Christmas lights and city-wide celebrations adding extra sparkle. The festival illuminates the city from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM daily.
Where are the key locations for the Amsterdam Light Festival?
The festival's locations change yearly, offering new perspectives of Amsterdam. Key spots include the iconic canals, historical bridges, and hidden gems. Check the official website for the latest map and installation details.
️ The ideal Amsterdam Light Festival hotels
Looking for the perfect place to stay during the festival?
MEININGER Hotels offers you 2 comfortable, budget-friendly accommodation options: the MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam Amstel and the MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam City West—ideal for all of you wanting to experience the Amsterdam Light Festival up close!
📍 MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam Amstel: Julianaplein 6, 1097 DN Amsterdam
📍 MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam City West: Orlyplein 1 – 67, 1043 DR Amsterdam
