Diwali 2022 : Be it old-school lanterns illuminating the sky, radiant diyas that brighten up our homes or modern hi-tech installations, light has been used as a medium of celebration for centuries.
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While we celebrate Diwali in India, here’s a glimpse of some of the most beautiful light festivals around the world, brightening the skies and our spirits.
For 10 ten days every year in October, the city of Berlin transforms into a gallery of light art. Iconic landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin TV Tower, and the Berlin Cathedral are decked up with 3D light projections by the best video artists in the world.
Loi Krathong is one of the most beautiful festivals of Thailand that honours the local river goddess. It is famous for the tradition of making banana boats called ‘krathong,’ that are floated on a river on a full moon night with flowers and candles. Lovely lanterns gliding across the night sky are visual highlights of the festival.
One of the biggest illumination carnivals in Europe, the annual West Country gala goes on for two months in the UK. Grand parades with bright and beautifully decorated carts are taken out. Different clubs compete for the best cart prizes and all the money raised during this carnival is donated to local charities.
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Every winter, artists from around the world come together to light up the streets and canals of Amsterdam with different installations. The festival goes on for over 50 days showcasing unique ways in which light can be used to create stunning visual art.
The Chinese New Year commemorates the start of the Lunar Year. Striking red decorations, glowing lanterns, fireworks and light installations are part of the celebrations to honour the animal whose year it is. The festivities go on for two weeks and decorations celebrate the animal of the year.
Vivid Sydney is a festival of lights, music and ideas. Outdoor immersive light installations, performances by local and international musicians, and an ideas exchange forum with debates and discussions are the main features of this interactive festival.
Plan a visit to one of these grand festivals to experience the magic of lights.