Get ready, London! The dazzling Winter Lights Festival is making its grand return to Canary Wharf, and this year’s edition is set to be brighter, bolder, and even more magical. From Tuesday 21st January to Saturday 1st February 2025, the festival will light up London’s skyline with an extraordinary display of creativity and innovation, bringing together global artists and their awe-inspiring works.
What’s New at Winter Lights 2025
If you think you’ve seen it all, think again. This year’s festival promises to mesmerize visitors with 12 brand-new installations, including two exclusive commissions and four UK premieres. From surreal to spectacular, each piece will illuminate Canary Wharf in a way that’s both thought-provoking and Instagram-worthy.
Highlights include Mirage, an immersive exploration of social media’s illusions, and Stitching Light, a deeply moving piece that celebrates the untold stories of Bangladeshi women living in Tower Hamlets. These works aren’t just about aesthetics—they invite you to reflect on the world around you.
A Feast for the Eyes (and the Stomach)
Winter Lights isn’t just a feast for the eyes. As you explore the glowing trail, you’ll discover a selection of culinary delights that are sure to warm you up. From Dishoom’s free chai pop-up to light-up cocktails at No35 Mackenzie Walk, the festival ensures your taste buds are just as entertained as your eyes.
Feeling peckish? Head to Mmy Wood Wharf’s neighborhood food market, where six street food vendors serve up everything from comforting classics to global flavors. Fancy something sweet? Joe Blake’s chalet is the spot for freshly made doughnuts and steaming hot chocolate.
An Artistic Adventure
This year’s installations push boundaries, turning light into a language of its own. Standout pieces include:
– Aj Vana Be, a towering stack of bathtubs transformed into a glowing commentary on water conservation.
– Bird Passing By, an ethereal representation of a bird in flight, made up of 64 illuminated sections.
– Wave, a dynamic audiovisual experience that captures the rhythm and beauty of breaking ocean waves.
Each artwork is a masterpiece, merging creativity with a deeper message that resonates long after you’ve left.
Explore the Permanent Light Art Collection
Canary Wharf’s permanent light installations are also getting their moment to shine. Don’t miss Bit.Fall, where cascading water spells out live news updates, or Captivated by Colour, a vibrant optical pattern that comes alive with light. These pieces add another layer of brilliance to an already dazzling festival.
Why Winter Lights Matters
Winter Lights isn’t just about pretty lights; it’s a celebration of art, innovation, and community. It transforms dark January nights into a glowing reminder of the power of creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or just looking for a reason to leave the house, this festival offers something for everyone.
Plan Your Visit
The festival runs from 5pm to 10pm nightly, and entry is completely free. Pro tip: Visit on a weeknight to avoid the weekend crowds. Maps are available online or from event stewards, ensuring you don’t miss a single glowing masterpiece.
For those looking to make a day of it, Canada Square Park’s ice-skating rink is the perfect addition to your Winter Lights adventure. Gliding on the ice with a backdrop of shimmering installations? Pure winter magic.
Be Part of the Glow
Winter Lights is more than a festival—it’s an experience. It’s a chance to see Canary Wharf like never before, bathed in creativity and light. Whether you’re snapping photos for the ’Gram, sipping on mulled wine, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, this is one event you won’t want to miss.
