Amsterdam Light Festival 2025-2026

When the days grow shorter and Amsterdam glows with soft candlelight, a tradition awakens that transforms the city anew each year.

As the days grow shorter and Amsterdam is bathed in soft candlelight, a tradition awakens that enchants the city year after year: the Amsterdam Light Festival. What began as a small initiative by entrepreneur Vincent Horbach, owner of Rederij Prinsengracht, has grown into an international art spectacle that brings together light, water, and culture.

More than fifteen years ago, Vincent had an idea: to brighten up Amsterdam's dark winter months with something beautiful, something connecting. Inspired by the Winterfest Boat Parade In Florida, he organized a lighted boat parade on the canals. It was a charming start, with a few boats and lots of enthusiasm, but the magic was there from the very first moment.

The initiative grew into Winter Magic Amsterdam And later, the Amsterdam Light Festival, which now attracts visitors from all over the world. "We wanted to create something that literally gets people moving," says Vincent. Light that brings people together on the water, that's what it's all about. And all of that against a backdrop of UNESCO World Heritage. How beautiful could it be?

Meaning

The upcoming edition, taking place from November 27, 2025, to January 18, 2026, will have the theme "Legacy" – Tradition & Heritage. What legacy do we leave behind for the world, for each other, for the city? Twenty (inter)national artists will offer their own interpretations of this theme, from monumental light installations to poetic reflections on heritage, identity, and the future.

The theme also resonates with Vincent personally: "For me, legacy isn't about possessions, but about meaning. Look at our city. This year we're celebrating our 750th anniversary. What remains when the light goes out? It could be a memory, a feeling, or a moment of wonder."

“What remains when the light goes out?”

Culture with a smile

From his boutique shipping company, Vincent offers visitors the most beautiful way to experience the festival: sailing, on a warm saloon boat, with a glass in hand and the light reflecting off the water. The captains of Rederij Prinsengracht are more than just skippers. They are hosts, guides, and storytellers.

Each trip is an intimate journey past the light artworks, accompanied by commentary, music, and often a touch of humor. "We bring art and conviviality together," says Vincent. "It can also just be fun. Culture with a smile."

The cruise line is known for its personal approach. With a fleet of stylish, covered saloon boats, it offers private cruises for small groups, complete with culinary arrangements, à la carte dinners, and onboard wine tastings. The result is an experience that feels both exclusive and welcoming; ideal for families, friends, or companies looking to share something special.

This edition further enriches that experience. New artworks by twenty international artists will appear along the canals and quays of the historic city center, carefully positioned to showcase the city in a whole new light. Some creations invite interaction, allowing visitors to become not just spectators but also part of the artwork.

Light as transmission and connection

The Rederij Prinsengracht saloon boats are sailing heritage, lovingly restored and equipped with modern technology, yet retaining their authentic charm. They connect the past with the present, just like the festival does.

For Vincent, it's also an opportunity to reflect on the value of his own legacy. "I hope that thirty years from now, people will still be sailing through the canals with wonder and will feel like children as they gaze at the light. If that happens, then I'll know we've left something lasting behind."

Want to experience Amsterdam Light Festival from the water this year? Discover the possibilities and book your private cruise or package through www.rederijprinsengracht.com.