Light Festival: Cruise with Official Audio Guide
Enjoy the best of the festival from the comfort of a canal boat.
- 75-minute canal cruise
- Amsterdam Light Festival
- Free WiFi
- Heated boat
- Live Guide
Amsterdam Light Festival Tickets and Information
- Where: Amsterdam Canal Network
- When: Late November - January
Is The Amsterdam Light Festival Worth Seeing
- We definitely think so, yes.
- It’s bright and beautiful.
- Kids will love it.
What You See At Amsterdam Light Festival
- Lights and lots of them!
- Art and lots of it!
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About Amsterdam Light Festival
The Amsterdam Light Festival is an annual event that transforms Amsterdam's historic canals into a glowing showcase of amazing artistic light installations. The internationally celebrated festival typically runs from late November to January and features artwork from global artists.
It’s a perfect way to experience Amsterdam’s charm during the winter months. If you are visiting Amsterdam during the season, a trip to the light festival should definitely be on your ‘Things to do in Amsterdam’ list! It’s just a nice way to spend an evening.
The light installations are arranged along Amsterdam’s canals and public spaces, primarily in the city center. The festival runs from late November to mid-January (exact dates vary yearly) and the lights are turned on from 5PM until 11PM daily during the festival.
How to Experience the Festival
- Boat Tours: Take a canal cruise to see the installations from the water, which really is a truly magical experience and something that all ages can enjoy, especially families.
- Walking Routes: Follow dedicated paths which are set up to explore the artworks on foot and at your own pace.
It's free to enjoy the festival on foot or you can take a cruise along the canal for an extra special experience. Its a great thing to experience with kids.
Popular Tickets
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The Amsterdam Light Festival FAQs
- What is the Amsterdam Light Festival?
- The Amsterdam Light Festival is an annual event that showcases illuminated artworks along Amsterdam’s canals and streets during winter (November - January).
- When does the Amsterdam Light Festival take place?
- The Amsterdam Light Festival usually runs from late November to mid-January.
- Where is the Amsterdam Light Festival?
- The Amsterdam Light Festival runs across Amsterdam’s canals and central city locations. If you are there during the period, you can’t miss it, don’t worry!
- What is the best way to see the Amsterdam Light Festival?
- We should suggest taking a canal boat cruise as they offer the best experiences, in our opinion. Click HERE for ticket options. However, you can also walk the route on foot as well.
- Can I walk around to see the Amsterdam Light Festival?
- Yes, there are free walking routes for pedestrians so they can enjoy the Amsterdam Light Festival.
- Do I need tickets for the walking routes on the Amsterdam Light Festival?
- No, the walking routes are free and open to everyone to enjoy!
- Is the Amsterdam Light Festival family-friendly?
- Absolutely! Many installations are interactive and kid-friendly.
- How long does it take to explore the Amsterdam Light Festival?
- Walking routes take 1-2 hours, while boat tours last about 75 minutes for the Amsterdam Light Festival.
- Are the artworks the same every year at the Amsterdam Light Festival?
- No, new artworks are created for each edition of the Amsterdam Light Festival.
Amsterdam Light Festival Fun Facts
- 2012: The Amsterdam Light Festival was first held in 2012 and has grown in popularity ever since!
- Popularity: It’s estimated that over 850,000 visitors attend the Amsterdam Light Festival annually!
- Winning Designs: Artists have to submit their proposals through a global competition to ensure fresh ideas each year!
- Energy Efficiency: The installations use energy-efficient lighting to promote sustainability.
- Interactive Displays: Some artworks are interactive, allowing you to activate or change the lights!
- Planning and Installations: It takes months of planning and hundreds of workers to set up the installations.
- Canal Cruises: The boat tours during the festival are among Amsterdam’s most popular activities.
- Dutch History: Some of the installations are inspired by Dutch history and culture, offering a unique way to learn about Amsterdam.
Useful Information About Amsterdam Light Festival
Tips for Visiting The Amsterdam Light Festival
- Book Tickets Online: If you want to enjoy a canal cruise to see the Amsterdam Light Festival, we suggest booking your tickets online. It’s easy and convenient and also guarantees your spot! The cruises get very busy as you can appreciate.
- Wrap Up Warn: Given it’s held in the evenings from 5pm until 11pm, it can be cold, so wrap up warm and take a hat and gloves!
