Höstljus Returns to Illuminate Umeå

The popular light festival Höstljus is back in Umeå, bringing color and light to the city during the darkest days of the year. Starting October 25th, around 40 light art installations will transform the city center into a magical wonderland.

This year’s theme is “With New Eyes”, encouraging visitors to rediscover the city from fresh perspectives through creative and thought-provoking light displays. The festival combines playful, colorful elements with more subtle works where darkness also plays an important role.

Highlights of Höstljus 2024

• New installations from students at Umeå University’s School of Fine Arts
• Collaboration between the Culture School and children’s rights organization BRIS, where children will create a glowing artwork
• Literature walk organized by the Regional Library, with local authors interpreting light installations via the “Härlitt” app
• Return of popular installations like “Starry Sky” and several light sculptures

Elin Jonsson, center manager at Visit Umeå, says: “Höstljus makes the city center more vibrant and has become an appreciated tradition.”

Sara Hedlund, landscape engineer and project manager for Höstljus, adds: “The sun shows itself less and less often, and the snow has not yet come. The light installations make a big difference during this dark time of year. They not only light up the city, but also contribute to a safer and more lively environment.”

Festival Details

Höstljus runs from October 25th to November 15th, with some installations remaining through the Christmas season. The traditional children’s lantern parade in Vänortsparken will take place on November 22nd this year.

Klara Enmark, project manager for BRIS, emphasizes the importance of children’s participation: “Children not only have the right to express their thoughts and opinions, but also to be taken seriously.”

Höstljus began in 2005 and ran annually until 2013. Its revival in 2020 aims to enhance the city center’s atmosphere and create additional reasons to visit downtown Umeå during the fall season.

For more information about Höstljus, visit www.visitumea.se

Source: Visit Umeå Press Release