The third verse of Genesis, and no, we’re not talking about the first time Phil Collins and Peter Gabriel harmonized on stage, included the immortal line: “Let there be light!”
At some point on the third day of February, a similar command is issued. And the fourth, and the fifth, and for three more weeks, right up to February 26.
For the sixth year, Copenhagen Light Festival returns to light up Copenhagen with 35 installations, numerous pop-up and themed events and a wide selection of guided tours, parties and treasure hunts.
On 3 February, it opens to the public in the Royal Playhouse, followed by a big concert in Holmen’s Church. Grøntsindet will only use special energy donated by its sponsor Ørsted for the festival.
Undeterred by corona and an incredible cold spell two years ago, it keeps coming back for more, bringing much-needed light into our lives at a time when we need it most.
Also in the suburbs
No doubt that 2021 was a breakthrough year for the free festival. Completely starved of indoor cultural events due to the pandemic, a record half a million people braved sub-zero temperatures to attend.
It was as if each installation was a gigantic heat-emitting beacon, drawing in the shivering crowds and warming them with their sheer wonder.
Primarily established along Copenhagen Harbour, this year will also include installations in remote areas, including the outer Copenhagen parks Bavnehøj, Remiseparken and Ørestaden, and even suburbs such as Brønshøj, Sundby, Vanløse and Tingbjerg.
To admire the lights of the city centre, visitors are inspired to choose between three routes – of 2, 5 or 10 km – which they can walk, run or cycle.
The organizers have divided the more than 35 installations into three groups: ‘Artistic’, ‘Architectural’ and ‘Experiences’. The first category is all about the message, the second the acting and the third is more family oriented.
Book early for tours!
“We hope that many Danes and foreigners will visit Copenhagen again during the winter holidays and spend a few days looking at the installations,” says festival curator Jesper Kongshaug.
“We try to meet our guests’ wishes for installations that are of a high artistic caliber and which at the same time provide fun family experiences.”
Kongshaug warns visitors to book tickets for the guided tours as soon as possible, as they tend to sell out quickly.
Extra tours along the canals have been arranged in anticipation of the great interest – and new this year there are also beer, wine and dance tours as well as special events for the visually impaired.
Be sure to download the festival app so you’re fully briefed on what’s going on.
Source: The Nordic Page