London’s largest free light festival is set to return for its milestone tenth anniversary, transforming Canary Wharf into a mesmerizing landscape of illuminated art from January 20 to 31, 2026. Following the success of the 2025 event, the Winter Lights Festival will once again illuminate the financial district’s outdoor spaces daily from 5pm to 10pm, offering visitors a chance to experience the spectacle completely free of charge.
The 2026 edition embraces the theme “DREAMSCAPE,” inviting attendees to journey through surreal and ethereal experiences uniquely human in nature.
Step into DREAMSCAPE, where surreal illuminations and ethereal wonders await in a distinctly human celebration of imagination.
Sixteen spectacular light installations will create an atmosphere of whimsy, escapism, and connection throughout Canary Wharf’s various outdoor locations. The installations will be switched on each evening as darkness falls, bringing the district to life with color and creativity.
Acclaimed artists from around the world will showcase their exceptional light artworks across the festival. Visitors can look forward to pieces by FloWeЯ PoWeЯ, In Bloom, Aether, Hulahoop, and Out of Body Experience. This milestone anniversary marks ten exceptional editions of artistic innovation and community engagement.
These installations will feature interactive elements, movement, projection, and playfulness, creating memorable experiences for all ages.
The festival spans multiple locations including the Canary Wharf Jubilee Line Station area, Riverside, Adams Plaza Bridge, Crossrail Place, and Jubilee Park.
Reflections across docks, plazas, and waterside paths add to the magical atmosphere of the event.
For an optimal experience, visitors can join a special guided exploration on Friday, January 23rd from 6:30 pm to 8 pm GMT, meeting at the Canary Wharf Jubilee Line Station.
No tickets or pre-booking are required to attend the Winter Lights Festival. Visitors can simply turn up and enjoy the displays.
A downloadable map will be released in early January, with printed maps available from event stewards on site. For those looking to avoid crowds, weekdays are recommended as weekends tend to be busier.
Practical tips for attendees include taking advantage of 20% off food from Winter Lights Bites traders Monday through Wednesday, and three hours of free parking with a £10 spend at Waitrose.
The festival is family-friendly, welcoming children to explore the illuminated wonderland that has become one of London’s most anticipated winter events.
The free event is best viewed during the evening hours, with the displays being particularly striking when experienced in full darkness conditions.
