Guide to the Berlin Festival of Lights

Every year in Berlin, a spectacular event called the Festival of Lights takes place around the city. It is a collection of artistic light installations that are projected onto important buildings and other Berlin landmarks in various parts of Berlin. This is a really fun festival, and in this article I’ll explain the best places to go to see the Festival of Lights and lots of tips for enjoying the experience.

Berlin Festival of Lights is usually 10 days long and takes place in autumn in Berlin. Normally it takes place in October, and this year the Festival of Lights Berlin dates are October 6-15, 2023.

Festival of Lights Berlin: What’s it all about?

The Festival of Lights turns buildings, landmarks, squares, and other important places into stages for artistic illuminations. It is not run by or financed by the state of Berlin, but the main sponsor and producer of the event was founded by a Berlin native.

The event was intentionally set up to be free so that everyone can enjoy it regardless of their income level. This is just one of many free activities in Berlin, and I really enjoy seeing the light shows.

The Festival of Lights also strives to be as sustainable as possible. The lights are powered using 100% renewable energy, the organizers use reusable materials as much as possible, and they plan their set ups to reduce travel back and forth across the city. The locations are purposely planned so that they are reachable on foot, by bike, or by public transport.

Every year the festival has a different motto or theme. In 2023, the theme is “colors of life” and the artistic creations will be interpretations of that motto. But in general, the Festival of Lights focuses on diversity and the idea that our differences and having a diverse society is something to be embraced.

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Have questions about planning your trip to Berlin?

Join the Facebook group here to chat with Ali (she runs this site) and other people who have been to Berlin for tips.

Berlin Festival of Lights FAQs

Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about the Festival of Lights event in Berlin.

When is the Festival of Lights Berlin?

This year the Festival of Lights Berlin event runs from October 6 to 15, 2023. It starts at 7pm and ends at 11pm, although there could be some differences at specific locations.

Do you need tickets for the Festival of Lights?

No, you do not need tickets for the Berlin Festival of Lights. This is a free event, and you can explore all the different locations without an entrance ticket.

>>Looking for more free things in Berlin? Check out these free Berlin museums.

Is the Festival of Lights barrier free?

The Festival of Lights in Berlin is barrier free since the event takes place outside. Some locations may be easier to reach than others for people using wheelchairs or other mobility devices, but it is designed to be accessible for all.

What to wear

Early October can be mild or even a bit chilly. You should always check the weather forecast right before your trip, but check out my autumn Berlin packing list for tips on what to wear and what to bring with you.

Specifically for the Festival of Lights, since it takes place at night and you will be on your feet, I recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Dress according to the weather, but unless we’re in the middle of an oddly late heat wave, you probably want to bring a light jacket or sweatshirt for when the temperatures drop in the evening.

Where are the best places to see the lights?

Many of the the light installations are projected onto famous buildings, monuments, and other landmarks in Berlin. Depending on how much walking you’re willing to do, you could walk from Alexanderplatz down Unter den Linden to Brandenburg Gate and then continue to Potsdamer Platz, and you’ll see lots of them.

Some notable buildings in this area include the TV Tower, the Berlin Cathedral, Bebelplatz, Brandenburg Gate, the Victory Column, quite a few different buildings at Potsdamer Platz, and more.

There are also some light shows at Oberbaum Bridge, Charlottenburg Palace, and a few located at not so touristy places in Berlin.

Download the BVG Fahrinfo app for routes and tickets. Public transport is the best way to get around in Berlin, especially during the light festival.

>>Check out some hidden gems in Berlin.

Berlin Festival of Lights Map

The organization that runs the Festival of Lights Berlin has compiled a helpful map of all the different locations where you can see the light shows. Note that some of them, especially locations farther from the center, don’t take place each day.

Berlin Travel Resources

I want you to have the best trip to Berlin, and hopefully this guide to the Berlin Festival of Lights is helpful. But there are lots more tips on the site!