Amsterdam Light Festival 2024-2025

The 2024-2025 edition of the annual Amsterdam Light Festival will last 52 days, starting the 28th of November 2024, till the 19st of January 2025. If you’re lucky enough to be in Amsterdam during this period, then the Light Festival is an absolute must-see! This year will be the 13th edition of the festival theme for this year is “Rituals“, but more on the theme later. The illuminated artworks of both national and international artists are placed in the canals of Amsterdam. The light sculptures are illuminated daily, on Wednesdays to Saturdays between 17:00 and 23:00 and Sundays to Tuesdays between 17:00 and 22:00. You can choose to visit the Amsterdam Light Festival following a walking tour, but we would recommend doing a boat tour to enjoy the experience to the fullest. The walking route will be available via the app of the Lightfestival organization. The app is free but you will need to pay a fee to download the route. Also, make sure to check out all other canal cruise options in Amsterdam!

#13 Rituals – the theme for Amsterdam Light Festival 2024 – 2025

The 2024 theme of the Light Festival is “Rituals”.  The Amsterdam Light Festival is a bright winter tradition. The Amsterdam Light Festival has been lighting up the city’s canals and streets for over 12 years. This year, it’s extra special as Amsterdam celebrates its 750th anniversary. Expect stunning light installations by global artists, turning the city into a sparkling outdoor gallery.

Why it’s worth a visit

Light has always been a symbol of hope and unity. The festival uses this power to create breathtaking displays, making it a must-see event during the winter months. Discover unique artworks that highlight Amsterdam’s creativity and history in a whole new light. Each year we visit it ourselves either by boat or by foot, and it’s a unique experience every year!

A highlight of the season

From boat tours to walking routes, the festival offers multiple ways to explore the light art safely and sustainably. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, the event promises a memorable experience filled with dazzling sights and cultural significance.

Boat tours, prices & discounts during the Amsterdam Light Festival 2024-2025

Several boating companies operate during the Amsterdam Light Festival. You can choose from a wide variety of boats from basic to luxury. Some tours include food, drinks, and even entertainment, while others just focus on the light sculptures. Of course, the more basic tours are a lot cheaper. To give you an idea; expect prices ranging from €20,95 up to €70,- per person for the more luxurious tours.

Check out our recommended cruises below;

Classic canal boat options

The standard canal boats are a perfect option for those who want to experience the Amsterdam Light Festival comfortably. These boats are covered, comfortably heated, and fitted with an onboard toilet. They are also stable, making them suitable for passengers with reduced mobility.

Lovers Canal Cruises

Step aboard one of Lovers’ classic canal boats and enjoy the light sculptures through the glass windows and ceilings or outside from the rear deck! Lovers is now offering an attractive discount for early bookers. Use it while it lasts! These tours depart from the Lovers Cafe near Amsterdam Central Station.

Lovers Day & Night combi-cruise

If you don’t want to miss out on the Light Festival but are interested in seeing Amsterdam from the water in daylight, Lovers has a combination product that offers the best of both worlds. With the Day & Night combi-cruise, you’ll get to pick two timeslots, so you can enjoy the wonderful canals in broad light and the illuminated artworks in the evening.

Stromma Canal Cruises

Stromma Canal Cruises offers both a classic canal boat tour and an open boat tour. Both cruises depart from Damrak, five minutes from Amsterdam Central Station. On Saturdays, a classic boat cruise departs from Rijksmuseum.

Small open boat options

A Light Festival cruise in a small, open boat allows for better sights and pictures. However, it’s also a bit colder, although some tours (warmed) provide blankets and pillows. Please note that the small vessels are less suitable for people with reduced mobility.

Private historical boats

Gather together with your friends, family or business colleagues, and rent a private historical boat during ALF. This is one of the best ways to experience ALF, and if you divide the costs by 10 it’s way more comfort for a bit more money.

There is heating on board and free blankets to use. Sip your glühwein or soda, and enjoy the quality time together.

FAQs concerning the Amsterdam Light Festival

What has changed compared to last year?

Like every year, all the artworks have been replaced with new ones, that are made to fit this year’s theme “Rituals”

What are the opening hours for the Amsterdam Light Festival?

Light Festival can be visited when the artworks are illuminated from 17:00 in the afternoon till 23:00 in the evening on Wednesdays to Saturdays, Sundays to Tuesdays the lights turn off an hour earlier at 22:00.

How much time do I need?

Most tours will take approximately 60- 90 minutes depending on your pace. Make sure to be there on time!

Is the Amsterdam Light Festival suitable for children?

Yes, the festival is suitable for all ages.

How much time does the walking route take?

The walking route typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you spend admiring the light installations.
Tip: Take some hot chocolate, tea or some other beverages with you.

Amsterdam Light Festival walking route 2024-2025

Unfortunately, we’re not able to share this year’s walking route. There’s a free app to download from the organization. You’ll be able to download the walking route via this app. The route needs to be purchased via the app. More information about the route and app can be found on the official website: https://amsterdamlightfestival.com/en/walk.

Photo impression of past editions

Want to see a little more? Check out these magnificent photos from previous editions.

©Photography by Janus van den Eijnden