Macau Light Festival
The Macau Light Festival was first held in 2015. This former Portuguese colony becomes bright in December when the festival is held. At that time, on the skyscrapers in the districts of Macau, the organizers install lighting systems, use applications and organize games to make the festival atmosphere sparkling and magical.
Fête des Lumières, Lyon, France
The Fête des Lumières is one of the oldest festivals of light in the world. It dates back to 1643, when the city was spared the ravages of the bubonic plague that was sweeping across Europe at the time. The townspeople lit candles and created a large procession to give thanks to Mary, the mother of Jesus.
Since then, the festival has grown into one of the world’s largest light festivals, featuring artists from all over the world and employing some of the most spectacular lighting techniques. The festival is held every December and locals have a habit of lighting a candle outside their window during the festival.
Pingxi Lantern Festival, Taipei, Taiwan
The festival is held annually to celebrate the Chinese New Year. The Lantern Festival in the Taipei suburb of Pingxi is one of the largest in the world, with thousands of lanterns lit and released into the sky, three times an hour, between 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.
The festival features lanterns of all shapes and sizes, many of which reflect the Chinese zodiac creatures. As they are released into the sky, people pray for a happy and prosperous new year.
Loy Krathong Festival, Chiang Mai, Thailand
The Loy Krathong festival is usually held in November every year. The Loy Krathong festival marks the end of the rainy season and thanks the Goddess of Water. Special lotus-shaped baskets are lit and released into the river as a symbol of sending off the bad things that happened in the old year and asking for good luck in the new year.
Krathongs (flower baskets) are made from coconut shells and make a dramatic display as they float down the rivers of Chiang Mai. Traditional Thai performances and concerts are also an important part of the festival.
Festival of Lights and Music in Sydney, Australia
Every May and June, Sydney comes alive with a 23-day festival of lights and music. The city is filled with concerts and famous, dazzling light installations. The most spectacular are the 3D mapping projects in the city’s central locations and the Opera House area. The famous sails on the river provide the perfect backdrop for all kinds of illuminations, from butterflies to traditional indigenous art.
Amsterdam Light Festival, Netherlands
Images of canals, houses and ancient bridges in the center of Amsterdam are common at the Amsterdam Light Festival. Effects from water music shows, participating in walking tours or boating along the festival route… are unforgettable experiences for visitors. The Amsterdam Light Festival takes place in winter, around December every year.
Birgu Festival, Malta
In Birgu, one of Malta’s oldest towns, there is the traditional Birgu Fest. It is an annual cultural and artistic festival that culminates when the city lights are turned off and the narrow streets are lit by candles.
Concerts are held on street corners, vendors sell traditional Maltese food at the autumn festival, and visitors are impressed by the performers wandering the winding streets, entertaining street audiences under the magical, flickering candlelight.
