If your January feels a little too grey, Canary Wharf’s Winter Lights Festival is here to shine a light—literally. From Tuesday 21st January to Saturday 1st February, this iconic event will transform Canary Wharf into a glowing wonderland of cutting-edge light art installations. With 12 breathtaking new pieces, including exclusive UK debuts, the ninth edition promises a luminous start to 2025.
A Dazzling Line-Up of Light Art Installations
This year, Canary Wharf Winter Lights takes art and innovation to the next level with a stunning blend of the surreal and the real. From a mesmerizing tornado of lights orbiting a pylon to a glowing stack of bathtubs symbolizing water conservation, the installations are anything but ordinary.
Among the highlights, Mirage, a brand-new commission, explores the illusions of social media. Meanwhile, Stitching Light weaves the stories of Bangladeshi women from Tower Hamlets into an intricate tapestry of sound and light. Expect everything from glowing figures questioning humanity’s relationship with technology to ethereal bubbles capturing the fragility of life.
Exclusive Debuts and New Commissions
Art lovers can look forward to four installations making their UK debut, including Error by Vendel & de Wolf and Bird Passing By by Luminariste. The latter is a poetic tribute to declining bird populations, with a giant illuminated bird in flight captivating audiences.
New commissions include Stitching Light, a poignant piece amplifying untold stories through traditional Bangladeshi folk art. Equally unmissable is Mirage, an immersive journey through light and sound that reflects the digital mirages of modern life.
A Festival Beyond Art
Winter Lights isn’t just about stunning visuals; it’s a multisensory experience. After marveling at the installations, treat yourself to the festival’s culinary delights. Sip on free chai from Dishoom, enjoy mulled wine at Humble Grape, or try an exclusive light-up cocktail at No35 Mackenzie Walk. Foodies can also explore Mmy Wood Wharf’s neighborhood food market, featuring six street food vendors serving global flavors.
For those seeking more action, London’s longest-running ice-skating rink at Canada Square Park provides the perfect winter activity. Whether you’re gliding on the ice or indulging in freshly made doughnuts, there’s something for everyone.
Why Winter Lights is a Must-See
Senior Arts & Events Manager Pippa Dale perfectly captures the festival’s magic: “Winter Lights transforms Canary Wharf into a large-scale art exhibition, lighting up these dark January evenings. It’s a unique opportunity to experience pioneering light art from around the globe.”
The installations go beyond aesthetics, sparking conversations about sustainability, technology, and community. For example, Aj Vana Be uses recycled bathtubs to highlight water conservation, while Elantica transforms e-waste into a striking geometric sculpture. These works challenge perceptions and inspire change, all while providing Instagram-worthy moments.
Tips for Visiting the Winter Lights Festival
With such a popular event, planning is key. Here’s how to make the most of your visit:
•Timing is everything: Visit on weeknights to avoid the weekend crowds. The festival runs from 5–10pm nightly.
•Plan your route: Download the Winter Lights map from the Canary Wharf website or app. Friendly stewards will also provide maps on-site.
•Dress warmly: January evenings can be chilly, so bundle up for the outdoor trail.
Explore the Permanent Light Art Collection
Canary Wharf is home to a remarkable permanent light art collection, which will also be illuminated for the festival. Highlights include Bit.Fall by Julius Popp, a cascading waterfall of words, and Captivated by Colour by Camille Walala, an optical pattern mural brought to life with rhythmic lights.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
Winter Lights isn’t just a festival; it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and innovation. Whether you’re a Shoreditch local or just visiting East London, this free event promises to brighten your January nights. It’s the perfect excuse to step out, explore, and immerse yourself in art that’s as thought-provoking as it is beautiful.
So grab your coat, charge your phone, and head to Canary Wharf for a luminous adventure. Whether you’re here for the art, the food, or just a new perspective on winter, Winter Lights 2025 is sure to leave you glowing.