What is the Light Festival Copenhagen?

The Light Festival Copenhagen is an annual winter event that transforms the city into an open-air gallery of glowing art installations, light projections, and interactive displays by local and international artists.

When does the Copenhagen Light Festival 2026 take place?

The Copenhagen Light Festival 2026 will run from January 30 to February 22, 2026. During this period, dozens of light installations will illuminate the city every evening.

Where does the Copenhagen Light Festival happen?

The festival takes place throughout Copenhagen’s city center and harbor area, including canals, bridges, and cozy streets. Many installations are near popular spots like Nyhavn, Christianshavn, and Tivoli Gardens.

How much does it cost to visit the festival?

It’s completely free! You can explore all the light installations at your own pace, following official routes or just wandering through the glowing city streets.

What can I expect to see at the Copenhagen Light Festival?

Expect around 50 light artworks—from laser-lit bridges and glowing balloons to colorful projections on historic buildings. Some installations even react to movement or sound.

What time is best to visit the light installations?

Go after dark (around 5 PM) for the full experience. That’s when all the artworks are illuminated and the reflections on the canals make the city extra magical.

Do I need to book tickets or tours for the festival?

No booking needed! However, you can download the official festival map online to find themed walking routes or guided tours if you prefer a more structured visit.

Is the Light Festival Copenhagen suitable for families and kids?

Absolutely! The festival is family-friendly with many interactive installations that kids love. It’s also great for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for something unique to do in winter.

What should I wear to the Copenhagen Light Festival?

It gets cold in February, so dress warmly in layers, bring gloves and a hat, and wear comfortable shoes. Many installations are outdoors, so be ready for a cozy winter stroll.

Where should I stay during the Copenhagen Light Festival?

Stay at the MEININGER Hotel Copenhagen, located centrally near the main train station and close to many light installations. It’s perfect for exploring the city and staying warm between adventures.

Copenhagen Light Festival 2026

When winter hits Copenhagen and the days turn short and gray, the city finds a way to shine. Literally. Every year, the Copenhagen Light Festival transforms the Danish capital into a glowing mix of light, color, and creativity.

In 2026, the festival runs from January 30 to February 22, turning long winter nights into something magical. It’s one of those events that makes you fall in love with the city all over again whether it’s your first visit or your tenth.

Light festival Copenhagen: the city skyline on the river in the night with the moon on the background — Copenhagen shines brightest at night – don’t miss the magical Light Festival!

_{Scroll down to learn more about the Festival of Lights in Copenhagen!}
💡 ✨ 🌉

🌟 What the festival is all about

The Copenhagen Light Festival brings together artists and designers from around the world to fill the city with light art: installations that glow, sparkle, and sometimes even move or react to people walking by. You’ll find glowing sculptures by the water, colorful projections on old buildings, and interactive pieces you can actually play with. Every work tells its own story; some are funny, some poetic, some just really beautiful. And… it’s free. You can wander around at your own pace, following one of the festival’s official walking routes or just exploring wherever your curiosity takes you.

📍 When + where

The festival takes place all across Copenhagen’s city center and harbor area, from January 30 to February 22, 2026. Most of the artworks are outdoors, scattered along canals, bridges, and cozy little streets. If you’ve never walked through Copenhagen at night, this is the time to do it. The lights reflect off the water, bikes zip by, and there’s this quiet excitement in the air. Bundle up, grab a hot drink, and just start walking, you’ll see the city in a whole new way.

✨ What to expect this year

Each year brings something new, but you can always expect around 50 light installations spread across the city. Some are huge, others are tucked away in surprising corners.

Past editions have featured:

Giant glowing balloons floating over the canals
Bridges covered in beams of laser light
Buildings turning into moving art screens
Interactive lights that respond when you walk past

The 2026 edition promises even more creativity and fun.

Light festival Copenhagen: a man walking through a glowing triangles sculpture — Light tunnels and good vibes – Copenhagen’s Light Festival is pure night magic @Kristoffer Trolle via Flickr

🧐 Who it’s for

Honestly? Everyone. Families with kids, couples on a date, friends exploring together, or solo travelers looking for a peaceful walk through the city. You don’t need to know anything about art to enjoy it. You just need to be open to feeling a bit of wonder. Locals love how it brings life to winter nights and how it shows a more intimate, real side of Copenhagen.

🧣 Tips for a great visit

Go after dark (around 5 p.m.) when everything’s fully lit.
Use the festival map to find routes.
Dress warmly. It’s beautiful but chilly!
Take your time. The best moments often happen when you’re not rushing.
Keep your camera handy, but don’t forget to just enjoy the view, too.

Light festival Copenhagen: Kid admiring a glowing rainbow dome at Copenhagen Light Festival — Mesmerizing lights for all ages – this dome’s a total Copenhagen highlight @Stig Nygaard via Flickr

And when you’ve had your fill of art and fresh air, pop into one of the city’s cafés or bars for something warm. Copenhagen knows how to do cozy. 😉