Amsterdam Light Festival

From 27 November 2025 to 18 January 2026, Amsterdam transforms into a glowing open-air gallery. During the Amsterdam Light Festival, more than 20 dazzling light artworks illuminate the canals, bridges, and quays of the historic city centre. The best way to experience it? On a Stromma Amsterdam Light Festival Canal Cruise or a cozy Open Boat Tour. Book your tickets online now and benefit from our special discounts.

What is the Amsterdam Light Festival?

Each winter, the Amsterdam Light Festival celebrates creativity and light. International artists design imaginative installations that turn the dark evenings into a sparkling outdoor exhibition. It’s one of the most magical winter activities in Amsterdam and a must-see for locals and visitors alike.

When does the Amsterdam Light Festival take place?

The festival runs during the darkest months of the year, bringing brightness and joy to the city. For the 14th edition, the dates are 27 November 2025 to 18 January 2026 — almost two months of breathtaking light artworks along the canals.

Where can you see the light artworks?

The Amsterdam Light Festival route changes slightly every year, but always takes you through the historic heart of the city. Expect glowing bridges, illuminated quays, and spectacular artworks that light up Amsterdam’s UNESCO canal belt.

Discover the full Amsterdam Light Festival route and follow the lights to see every artwork shine.

See the Festival of Lights by Canal Cruise

There’s no better vantage point than from the water. Join Stromma on the official light festival cruise and admire every artwork up close. Choose between:

Heated Canal Cruise – cosy boats with panoramic glass roofs for maximum comfort, whatever the weather.
Open Boat Tour – an intimate outdoor experience that brings you even closer to the light art.

Both options include an audio guide with captivating stories about the artists and their creations.

Special Theme 2025–2026

Each edition of the festival has a unique theme that guides the artworks. The theme for the 14th edition has not yet been revealed — as soon as it’s announced, we’ll update this page with all the details.

A canal cruise passing through a popular light art installation

Amsterdam Light Festival Canal Cruise

Discover the magic of the Amsterdam Light Festival Canal Cruise from November 27, 2025, to January 18, 2026. Glide through the canals on heated boats with hot chocolate, free Wi-Fi & unforgettable views of dazzling light artworks this winter.

Toilet on Board

75-minute tour

Free wifi

€23.75

Amsterdam Light Festival Open Boat

Step aboard our electric Open Boat and experience a truly unique Amsterdam Light Festival Open Boat Tour. Enjoy the festival's dazzling light art up close, from the comfort of a cosy and intimate cruise.

Live Guide

Eco-friendly

75-minute tour

€23.75