Not only are exciting new openings in store for us in the city, but also some of the most beautiful light installations of the year. As it does every year, Berlin transforms into a dazzling spectacle for ten evenings in October, glowing in the most vibrant colors. 2026 is no exception: From October 9 to 18, the 22nd edition of the Festival of Lights will take place , transforming Berlin into a grand stage for international light art for ten evenings.
The 22nd edition of the festival is themed “Colours of Love.” Well-known landmarks, historic buildings, and public spaces will be showcased with elaborate projections, 3D video mapping, and light installations. The open-air installations are free to visit during the festival and are expected to be open daily from approximately 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. A total of around 40 locations in Berlin will be part of the festival . The spectrum ranges from classic light installations and video mapping to artistic facade displays. The festival is organized by Festival of Lights International Productions GmbH. The event has been taking place since 2005 .
“Colours of Love”: The 2026 Theme
In 2026, the Festival of Lights will revolve around the various facets of love. According to the organizer, the light art is intended to open up new perspectives on Berlin and highlight themes such as solidarity, mutual respect, and connection. The focus isn’t exclusively on romantic love, but rather on a broader understanding of love and human connection.
These locations will be illuminated in 2026
Among the most important venues are numerous well-known landmarks in downtown Berlin. For example, a 3D video mapping display can be seen at the Berlin TV Tower . St. Mary’s Church, Berlin Cathedral, Humboldt University, the State Opera on Unter den Linden, St. Hedwig’s Cathedral, and the Brandenburg Gate are also part of the program. Other installations can be found at the Hotel de Rome and Behren Palais, the Westin Grand, the Konzerthaus, the Pergamon Museum, and the colonnades of the Alte Nationalgalerie, among other locations.
The Nikolaiviertel will also become a special venue for light art during the festival. Among other things, the installations “Babylon Berlin” and “Angels of Love” are planned there. In addition, trees will be illuminated, and other light installations will be on display around Nikolaikirchplatz and Propststraße. The illuminated features include, among others, the Wappenbrunnen and the Gerichtslaube. Another focal point is located around Potsdamer Platz. Among others, The Ritz-Carlton, the Kollhoff Tower, the Forum Tower, P5, Potsdamer Platz itself, Haus Huth, Alte Potsdamer Straße, and The Playce will be part of the festival. The “House of Cards” installation is also planned for the Center am Potsdamer Platz.
There are also numerous other venues outside the historic city center. These include the Victory Column, the Oberbaum Bridge, the THF TOWER at Tempelhof Airport, the Postbahnhof, the Radio Tower, the Olympic Stadium, and the park at Lichtenberg City Hall. In total, the currently published program list includes 36 listed locations, though the program may still be expanded.
“Beyond the Light” at Berlin Cathedral
A special highlight of the festival will take place for the first time in 2026 inside Berlin Cathedral. In “Beyond the Light – Reflections,” the interior of the cathedral will be transformed with 3D video art. The projections will incorporate the architecture and details of the building, turning the interior into a colorful audiovisual installation accompanied by atmospheric music. The shows will take place from October 9 to 11 and will last about 30 minutes each. On October 9, performances are scheduled for 7:00 p.m., 8:15 p.m., and 9:30 p.m. On October 10, the shows begin at 8:00 p.m., 9:15 p.m., and 10:30 p.m., while on October 11, performances take place at 8:00 p.m. and 9:15 p.m. A separate ticket is required for “Beyond the Light.”
Festival of Lights in Concert
From October 13 to 17, Berlin Cathedral will once again serve as the stage for a fusion of 3D light art and electronic music. The “Festival of Lights in Concert” will feature performances by Alle Farben, Klangkarussell, Westbam, Anja Schneider, Chris Bekker, and Ukai Ndame, among others.
New in 2026: Festival of Lights Club Nights
In 2026, the festival will also be expanded to include Club Nights . These events will combine the festival’s light art with Berlin’s club culture and electronic music. Events are planned at venues including M-BIA, MAAYA, and the PKH Warehouse. At M-BIA, the Club Nights will take place on October 9, 10, 16, and 17. An event is planned for October 16 at MAAYA. The PKH Warehouse is set to host the event series from October 9 through 17.
