Light shows in Berlin
Full color: Two light festivals at once will illuminate Berlin over the next two weeks. Both events are free and cast their spell on two million people each year.
German capital illuminated
The annual light shows in Berlin have kicked off: From October 2-18 artists from all over the world will stage a spectacle of colors in the German capital. The current festival "Berlin Illuminated" will be followed by the "Festival of Lights," beginning on October 9.
Opening ceremony at Potsdamer Platz
Right after nightfall more than 80 light installations transform streets, buildings and squares of the capital into colorful works of art. At the opening ceremony of "Berlin Illuminated" on October 2 illuminated fish hovered over the heads of the visitors.
Dancing lamps
During the opening ceremony members of the artist collective "Vagalume" appeared in illuminated costumes. During the Lichterfest they will be performing daily at the DomAquaree in Berlin's district Mitte.
Bridge of Hearts
On the 25th anniversary of Germany’s reunification the Oberbaum Bridge is being transformed into the "Bridge of Hearts". It connects the district Friedrichhain to Kreuzberg. Until the fall of the Berlin Wall, the Oberbaum Bridge marked the border between East and West Berlin. Today it is a symbol of reunification.
City of change
"Light of change - Berlin, from a divided city to a global metropolis" is the motto of this year’s festival. 'Dare to transform and change' is also what designer Daniela Faber wants to convey with her steel sculpture "Grow." It can be visited at Ernst-Reuter-Platz.
Spooky apparitions
According to the organizers, the festival's highlight is the ghost ship at the east harbor. A cargo ship of the Dutch East India Company from the 17th century called "Amsterdam" appears out of nowhere - a 3D installation that blends water and light. With a little breeze it looks as if the sails were moving.
Glowing waves
"Berlin illuminated" aims to contribute to UNESCO‘s call for the "International year of light and light Technology." It understands light as the elementary requirement of all life and as a component of culture and science. Sculptures and installations at Ernst-Reuter-Platz depict this perfectly.
All roads lead to light
From a distance they look like floating art installtions themselves: passenger ships on the Spree river bringing visitors to the festival's attractions. From bus tours, to photo safaris, guided walking tours or bicycle tours - at the Lichterfest anything seems possible.
Let there be light
The "Festival of Lights" starts on October 9. More of the city's buildings and landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate will be lit-up. Since 2005 the festival has taken place in Berlin, and is one of the world‘s most well-known light festivals. In 2014 more than two million tourists came to Berlin for the "Festival of Lights."