Amsterdam light festival 2023-2024

Amsterdam Light Festival 2022

Amsterdam Light Festival is a celebration of Light, Art and Imagination. At this time of the year part of Amsterdam city center is turned into an urban fairy tale, where observers can walk or float by multiple unique works of Art blended into the city landscape by selected artists from all over the world. This is an annual event that happens in Amsterdam in the beginning of winter, and it a must see attraction during the longest winter nights.

When: Thursday, November 30th 2023, until Sunday, January 21st, 2024 :: Lights are on from 5pm till 10 pm (Sun-Tue) and till 11 pm (Wed-Sat)

Currently celebrating its 12th triumphant year, the Amsterdam Light Festival dives into the complex world of technology and artificial intelligence, examining their profound influences on our everyday existence. Spanning a total of 52 magic nights, this illuminating extravaganza transforms Amsterdam into a radiant display during the darkest period of the year. With an impressive lineup of close to 40 singular light exhibits adorning its iconic canals, the city literally sparkles!

Visitors are treated to a variety of viewing experiences. They have the freedom to partake in “The Illuminade”, a complimentary 90-minute walking exploration of the lights. Alternatively, a more immersive experience is available, through a modestly priced boat cruise. This allows patrons to experience the grandeur of the light installations from the canals, sailing alongside and even cruising under some of these artistic marvels.

As the daylight recedes early, beginning around 4pm, the festival engenders the perfect evening entertainment in Amsterdam. The designated route of the boat cruise weaves through the eastern segment of the city’s epicenter, creating a visually arresting journey. The Amsterdam Light Festival stands as an undeniable highlight, a crucial component of the winter holiday itinerary. A visit here during Amsterdam’s darkest months is an unforgettable experience, injecting luminescence and jubilation into one’s spirit, and kindling warmth in their hearts.

how to get to amsterdam light festival?

Via public transport: you can get to Amsterdam Light Festival route by a tram (route stop points at Amsterdam Central Station and Waterlooplein), by metro (Amsterdam Central Station, Nieuwmarkt and Waterlooplein) or by train at Amsterdam Central Station.

You could walk the ground tour (6.5 km long route) or hop on the boat and enjoy the views from the water surface. Ticket options include a digital map of the attractions, audio tour and more.   

It's easy to find the walking route starting points: just spot an artwork, and go from there! If you'd like to start at the information stand, three of those are located at IAmsterdam Store CS, at Prins Hendrikkade and Blauwbrug. Digital map of Amsterdam Light Festival is also available on their official website.

You can also rent a bike to ride through the route, or take one of the Amsterdam Light Festival bike tours. 

Using a boat is a perfect way to see Amsterdam Light Festival installations and artworks! If you don't have your own boat, check out our list of special Amsterdam Light Festival boat tours below on this page!

Amsterdam Light Festival 2022

Amsterdam light festival tours

Amsterdam Light Festival is one of the main winter events in Amsterdam, and you can find multiple tour options to facilitate your logistics, enhance your experience and make your visit into a great memory!

See all Amsterdam Light Festival tours and activities by GetYourGuide - click here.

See all ALF2023 activities by Tiqets - click here.

Make sure you book them ahead of time, and enjoy Amsterdam Light Festival 2022!

Previous alf editions

Amsterdam Light Festival Editions

Amsterdam Light Festival 2022-2023 was the 11th Edition of the festival which is called “Imagine Beyond”. It took place along the canals of Amsterdam Centre-East from the beginning of December 2022 until January 22, 2023. The art installations included Blooming Lanterns which interact with passers-by, a huge Light Gate made of illuminated metal mesh, the luminous fireflies and "burning" water. 

other winter activities in amsterdam

  • Buy a cold drink and take awesome photos with your friends at XtraCold Icebar in Amsterdam - get tickets here!
  • Visit one of the best Amsterdam restaurants with awesome city views!
  • Seize the moment of holiday shopping spree and go shopping in one of the Amsterdam malls, boutiques, or markets!

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Image credits:

Amsterdam Travel Tips group on Facebook