2026 - January - Amsterdam - Light Festival

Light installations in the dark are particularly popular during the winter months, but rarely is there something similar to experience in January.

The Amsterdam Light Festival actually ran from November 27, 2025, to January 18, 2026. So we were here on the very last weekend of this edition. And it was already the 14th edition of it. This time the theme was “Legacy” and along the route, there are about 20 light artworks by international artists to see.

I initially thought that a canal cruise would be the best way to admire the attractions. We did that too, but I wouldn't really recommend it. In fact, you don't see the artworks from the boat very well, because either you're sitting on the wrong side or the window reflects too much.

Therefore, we used a second evening and walked along the route. This tour is about 6.5 km long and can of course also be done by bike. Some sections were quite busy, while others were less so. Unfortunately, it became quite foggy for us later and it was only 2°C warm.

But this weather doesn't bother an Amsterdamer at all. After 8:30 PM, we passed by an outdoor tennis club where tennis was still being played under floodlights. And right after that, we encountered a large running club. However, we found the groups of paddlers waiting at the bridges the most impressive, as they had to be directed to avoid colliding with the excursion boats.

Another extra tip for the next edition: I found the app for the festival quite handy, even though it cost a proud €6.99. Unfortunately, it was also essentially shut down from January 19, 2026. I would have liked to read some things again.

Either way, the tour is worth it, especially on foot or by bike, as you can take your time to look at everything at your own pace.