Amsterdam Light Festival 2025/2026 | The Ultimate Canal Cruise Guide

Your Guide to the Amsterdam Light Festival 2025/2026: The Experience from the Water

Every winter, Amsterdam transforms into a glittering open-air gallery. The Amsterdam Light Festival is an annual highlight that illuminates the dark months with breathtaking light artworks by international artists. And there is no better way to experience this magic than from the water.

Here's everything you need to know to plan your canal cruise for the 2025/2026 Light Festival.

What is the Amsterdam Light Festival?

The Amsterdam Light Festival is an annual event where dozens of innovative and beautiful light sculptures, projections, and installations adorn the canals and city center. Artists from all over the world submit concepts based on a specific theme, and the best works are selected to make the city glow.

Theme and Dates for 2025/2026

While the exact theme is announced anew for each edition, the festival traditionally takes place during the months of December and January. Keep an eye out for the official announcement of the dates for Edition 14! The artworks are illuminated daily from the late afternoon until late evening.

Why is a Canal Cruise the Best Way to See the Festival?

While you can explore the route on foot, a canal cruise offers an unparalleled experience:

1. The Perfect Perspective: Many artworks are specifically designed to be viewed from the water. You experience the installations from the angle the artist intended.

2. Comfort and Warmth: Instead of freezing in the winter cold, you'll be sitting in one of our comfortable and heated boats. Enjoy the view with a hot drink in hand.

3. No Crowds: You won't have to push through crowded streets. On the water, you have a clear and unobstructed view of every piece of art.

What to Expect from a Light Festival Canal Cruise

Our special Light Festival tours are designed to give you the best possible experience. The route follows the official festival itinerary, guaranteeing you won't miss a single artwork. There's often an audio commentary on board that tells you more about the artists and the meaning behind each installation. The cruise usually lasts between 75 and 90 minutes.

Secure Your Spot in Advance! The canal cruises during the Amsterdam Light Festival are extremely popular and often sell out weeks in advance. Don't wait until the last minute.

Book your Amsterdam Light Festival Canal Cruise now and look forward to an unforgettable winter experience!

This sea of lights is something you have to see in person. The special Canal Cruise Amsterdam during the Light Festival is the most popular tour of the winter. Be sure to secure your tickets early via our homepage before they sell out!