From late November, when it is dark by half past four, Amsterdam’s canals become a gallery. The Amsterdam Light Festival places light artworks along the water and over the bridges, and for its 15th edition, from 26 November 2026 to 17 January 2027, it has a new route. The art itself is free to see. All you need is a warm coat and an evening.
This year there is no theme. The organisers, an independent non-profit foundation, asked local and international artists what they wanted to show the people of Amsterdam and its visitors, and left the answer to them. About 20 works are spread through the eastern part of the city centre, on a route that passes the Magere Brug and the Amstel locks.
On foot
The walking route is about 4.5 kilometres, an unhurried evening. You can follow it on your own for free, or buy the Light Walk in the festival app, which adds an audio guide, notes on each work and its artist, live location on the map and offers at restaurants along the way. For children there is a Kids Walk, with quiz questions and a scavenger hunt, aimed at ages seven to 12 and possible over the full route or half of it.
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Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam
Six grand canal palaces along the UNESCO-listed Herengracht.
By boat
Some works are made to be seen from the water. The cruise route runs about five kilometres, anticlockwise through the canals, with tickets booked in advance through the festival. An open boat is colder but gives the best views; a covered one is the better choice on a wet night. Book ahead for the weeks around Christmas and New Year.
When to go
The artworks are lit every evening from 16:30 to 23:00. Early evening on a weekday is the calmest time, and the route can be combined with dinner. The festival ends on 17 January 2027, so January is a good month to go once the holiday crowds have thinned.
Plan your visit
The festival website has the route map, the list of artworks and tickets for the Light Walk, the Kids Walk and the cruises. Check it before you go for any changes to the route or hours.
