Zagreb’s Festival of Lights is just one week away. This visually striking annual event ushers in the spring in the capital, and is one of the most unique experiences the city has to offer. It’s the opening salvo of a travelling festival which culminates in Berlin in October, with Sofia sandwiched in between in May.
This year’s edition will sprawl across Zagreb with a total of 29 distinct installations for visitors to enjoy. A look at the English-friendly website will give you a preview of each one, including Lighthouse, that will transform the historic Lotrščak Tower in the Upper Town into a beacon, a constant symbol of hope and marking the beginning of another festival.
Occupying prime real estate at Trg Kralja Tomislava, Rhythm and Measurement of Light by incredible ‘land and light’ artist Javier Riera will project an entrancing and calming series of geometric patterns onto the rear face of the Art Pavilion. Another pair of enticing installations are both from Slovakian artist sedemminut. Universum on Gajeva ulica promises a 'light orchestra' of 50 illuminated spheres reflecting from a pool of water beneath it, aiming to introduce a harmonious dynamism to its surrounding static environment, while For Peace at Ribnjak park will portray a series of figures in various running motions, beginning slowly at a strolling pace and culminating in a sprint of light.
Zagreb’s Festival of Light is a wonderful spectacle and creates an exciting atmosphere around the city’s streets, curious tourists and locals stopping to enjoy the projection shows and light installations across town.
The festival takes place from March 20-24, and is completely free for all installations. Note that all projections will be shut off for 15 minutes to mark Earth Hour at 8.30pm on March 23.