Berlin Festival of Lights 2026: Dates, Program and Highlights

Welcome to the Berlin Festival of Lights 2026

From 9 to 18 October 2026, Berlin transforms for the 22nd time into a giant stage for light art. Under this year's theme "Colours of Love", famous landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate, the TV Tower, Museum Island and the Berlin Cathedral are covered in artistic light projections and 3D mappings. Over ten evenings, international and emerging artists bring the city's facades to life; the Festival of Lights has become one of the largest light festivals in Europe and draws millions of visitors every year.

Highlights

• 22nd edition of the festival under the theme "Colours of Love"
• Over 50 illuminated locations and landmarks across the city
• Light installations at the Brandenburg Gate, TV Tower and Berlin Cathedral
• Artistic projections around Potsdamer Platz and The Playce
• "Festival of Lights in Concert" with 3D light art shows and ambient music at the Berlin Cathedral (13 to 17 October)
• Guided lightseeing tours by bus, on foot or by boat

Program

Over ten evenings, from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM each night, numerous Berlin landmarks and squares light up. Potsdamer Platz and The Playce form one of the festival's main venues; at the same time, locations such as the Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island and Bebelplatz turn into a walkable light gallery. From 13 to 17 October, the "Festival of Lights in Concert" series adds immersive 3D light shows at the Berlin Cathedral, accompanied by DJs and artists such as Alle Farben, Westbam and Anja Schneider. The final list of illuminated locations is usually published shortly before the festival starts, as the selection changes slightly each year.

Tickets

Visiting the light installations in public spaces is free; the festival is freely accessible without registration. Costs only apply to additional offers such as guided city tours, bus lightseeing tours, walks including a visit to the TV Tower, or boat tours along the illuminated riverbanks; these tours can be booked through visitBerlin and tend to sell out quickly due to limited spots.

Visitor Tips

• Plan for two to four locations per evening rather than a rushed route through the whole city.
• Weekdays and later evening hours are quieter for photos; full darkness produces stronger colors.
• With children, an earlier start shortly after 7:00 PM is worthwhile.
• Bring warm clothing, as October evenings are already cool.
• Use public transport, as heavy crowds are expected around the main venues.