The event at Karlsruhe Palace is set to commence in August
The city of Karlsruhe, Germany, is set to host the 11th edition of the Schlosslichtspiele Karlsruhe from August 14 to September 14, 2025. This annual festival of light art and interactive media shows promises to transform the city center into a radiant spectacle, attracting visitors from around the world[1][2].
Highlights of the Schlosslichtspiele Karlsruhe 2025
The baroque façade of Karlsruhe Palace, a 170-meter-long surface, will serve as a breathtaking digital canvas for the festival[1]. The theme for this year's event is "The Shining Lights of Science," celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), a world-renowned university[1].
Visitors can expect diverse light installations, luminous events, and interactive art throughout the city center, with additional artworks in the Karlsruhe city center during the festival period[1][2]. Medial installations at Stephanplatz and other central locations will provide further highlights.
One unique feature of this year's event is Dennis Siering's transformation of antifascist protest songs into artificial bird song in the castle garden[1]. Real birds may also be inspired by this innovative creation.
Supporting Cultural Events
In addition to the main event, there are supporting cultural events and exhibitions in Karlsruhe preceding and accompanying the festival period. These include installations and workshops linked to art, science, and technology[2].
The Schlosslichtspiele's Rich History
The Schlosslichtspiele was launched in 2015 to celebrate Karlsruhe’s 300th anniversary and has since attracted over two million visitors worldwide, making it a major summer attraction[1]. The festival is a popular event that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, thanks in part to strong support from partners like BBBank and dm[1].
The BBBank Award
The festival will also feature six new light shows, including three works from the international BBBank Award. Over 100 applications were received for the BBBank Award from 20 nations[1]. On the first evening, visitors will vote live for the 5,000 Euro prize in the BBBank Award[1].
A Global Event with a Local Heart
The Schlosslichtspiele Karlsruhe combines art, science, and urban life into a radiant highlight. It's a testament to the city's commitment to fostering creativity and innovation, while also showcasing its rich history and cultural heritage[1][2]. A live broadcast to Ukraine is scheduled for September 1st[1].
Prepare to be amazed as Karlsruhe's city center is bathed in magical light throughout August and September, turning it into a magical sea of lights[1][2]. Don't miss this unforgettable experience!
[1] Schlosslichtspiele Karlsruhe [2] Karlsruhe Tourism Board
- The Schlosslichtspiele Karlsruhe 2025 will showcase diverse installations and interactive art not only in the city center, but also in the home-and-garden setting of the castle garden, featuring an innovative creation by Dennis Siering.
- In addition to the main festival, there are supporting events and exhibitions in Karlsruhe, offering insights into art, science, and technology, reflecting the rich fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, and home-and-garden culture of the city.
- The Schlosslichtspiele Karlsruhe, a major summer attraction, attracts visitors from all over the world, celebrating the city's scientific achievements, while maintaining a strong local identity, as demonstrated by its partnerships with BBBank and dm.
