When November darkness settles over Sweden, Uppsala comes alive with light. Streets, bridges, and historic buildings glow in brilliant color, and art installations transform the city into a living gallery.
Welcome to Allt Ljus på Uppsala 2025 — a spectacular light art festival that brightens winter with creativity, reflection, and connection. As a travel photographer, this is one of the most visually rewarding events in Scandinavia, offering endless opportunities to capture the play between light, architecture, and shadow.
In this complete guide, you’ll find updated 2025 information — including dates, times, locations, featured works, and insider photography tips to help you make the most of this magical event.
What Is Allt Ljus på Uppsala?
Allt Ljus på Uppsala (Swedish for “All the Light on Uppsala”) is a light art festival that has been illuminating the city since 2008. Each edition features around 15–25 installations by Swedish and international artists.
The festival aims to transform public spaces into immersive art experiences that explore light, space, and imagination — while promoting sustainability and accessibility.
For 2025, the theme is “The Promise of Change” — highlighting transformation, adaptation, and hope in an ever-shifting world. Expect installations that blend technology, storytelling, and environmental awareness in truly photogenic ways.
When and Where It Takes Place
🗓 Festival Dates: 7 – 23 November 2025
🕓 Installation Hours: 16:00 – 22:00 (4 p.m. – 10 p.m.)
📍 Location: Central Uppsala – along the Fyris River, near Uppsala Cathedral, Castle Hill, and key public squares.
The walking route spans approximately 3 km, designed as a loop so visitors can easily explore on foot. Maps are available digitally and at local information points.
Why You Should Visit
- It’s free and open to all – perfect for spontaneous evening strolls.
- Stunning photography opportunities – reflections, contrasts, and creative light play.
- Easy to reach – just 40 minutes by train from Stockholm.
- Sustainable and creative – energy-efficient lights and eco-friendly installations.
- Magical winter mood – enjoy Swedish fika while wandering through glowing art.
How to Get There
🚆 By Train: Take an SJ or Mälartåg train from Stockholm Central Station (approx. 40 min). Uppsala’s train station is right by the start of the festival route.
🚗 By Car: About 1 hour north of Stockholm via the E4. Paid parking at Centralstationen, Dragarbrunnsgatan, or Kvarnengallerian.
🚶 On Foot: The route is compact and entirely walkable — dress warmly and bring a thermos of glögg or coffee.
Related read: How to Plan a Christmas Market Road Trip in Sweden
Highlights of Allt Ljus på Uppsala 2025
Each year brings new interpretations of the theme — but here are the main areas and artworks you shouldn’t miss.
I have not been this year, all my photos where taken 2024.
1. Uppsala Cathedral (Domkyrkan) – Light Over History
Sweden’s tallest cathedral becomes a monumental canvas for projection art. Expect intricate mapping shows that merge spiritual symbolism with modern design.
Photography tip: Set up across the Fyris River for symmetrical shots and reflections. Use ISO 100 and a 10-second exposure to capture full light depth.
2. Fyris River – Reflections of Change
The heart of Uppsala glows along the riverbanks. Floating sculptures, laser bridges, and color-changing light paths ripple across the water.
Pro tip: Arrive just after 16:00 when the last daylight fades — the contrast between natural twilight and artificial light is breathtaking.
3. Uppsala Castle Hill – Panorama of Light
From the castle’s vantage point, you’ll see Uppsala transformed — a soft glow stretching across the city. Often, installations here interact with sound and motion sensors.
Photo idea: Use a wide-angle lens to frame both the castle and cathedral in one shot.
4. Linnaeus Garden – Nature Illuminated
A peaceful part of the trail where trees and pathways shimmer in gentle, sustainable light. In 2025, installations are expected to explore the relationship between flora and climate change.
Photography tip: Use a low aperture (f/1.8–2.8) for dreamy bokeh among leaves and light clusters.
5. Stora Torget & Vaksala Torg – Interactive City Light
The social core of the festival, featuring interactive works where you can step into the art. Expect kinetic sculptures, digital projections, and glowing poetry.
Don’t miss: Grab a cup of hot chocolate from local pop-up cafés while watching families interact with the lights.
Related read: Most Photogenic Christmas Markets in Sweden
Photography Tips for Capturing Light Art
Use Manual Settings
Shoot in RAW, set your camera to manual mode, and keep ISO between 100–400. Experiment with 1–10 second exposures for smooth effects.
Play with Reflections
Water, glass, puddles, and even windows can double your compositions.
Include People
A blurred silhouette or child chasing lights adds scale and emotion to your shots.
Arrive Early & Stay Late
Blue hour (15:30–16:30) gives a balanced light tone; later hours (20:00+) offer deeper contrasts and fewer crowds.
Related read: How to Photograph Winter Light in Scandinavia
Insider Tips
- Bring a lightweight tripod – ideal for long exposures.
- Download the festival map via alltljuspauppsala.se.
- Dress in warm layers – temperatures often drop below 0°C.
- Use gloves with touch fingertips – essential for camera controls.
- Stay in town overnight – the evening lights and early morning frost are worth it.
Where to Eat and Stay
Eat & Drink:
- Café Linné – candlelit charm and fresh pastries.
- Guntherska Hovkonditori – one of Uppsala’s oldest cafés.
- Domtrappkällaren – Swedish fine dining near the cathedral.
- Jay Fu’s – creative Asian-fusion dishes overlooking Fyrisån.
Where to Stay:
- Grand Hotell Hörnan – perfect river views for night photography.
- Radisson Blu Uppsala – next to the station, ideal for easy access.
- Akademihotellet – cozy, classic, and close to the cathedral.
Accessibility & Sustainability
All installations are powered with low-energy LEDs and renewable electricity. The route is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and level paths. Info signs include both Swedish and English descriptions.
Guided tours are available and often themed around art, sustainability, or photography.
Combine with Nearby Attractions
Extend your visit with a few nearby highlights:
- Gamla Uppsala: Mystical burial mounds in early winter fog.
- Uppsala Art Museum: Exhibitions often complement the light festival.
- Stockholm Day Trip: Only 40 minutes by train — combine with Best Christmas Markets in Stockholm (2025).
Related read: The Ultimate Guide to Christmas Markets in Sweden
External Resources
- Allt Ljus på Uppsala – Official Site
- Visit Uppsala Tourism
- Uppsala Municipality Events
- Visit Sweden – Winter Festivals
- SJ Trains – Plan Your Trip
Related Reads on FrewaPhoto
- Most Photogenic Christmas Markets in Sweden
- How to Plan a Christmas Market Road Trip in Sweden
- Gothenburg’s Magical Christmas Markets
- The Ultimate Guide to Christmas Markets in Sweden
- How to Photograph Winter Light in Scandinavia
FAQs: Visit Allt Ljus på Uppsala – Light Artworks 2025
When does Allt Ljus på Uppsala 2025 take place?
From 7 to 23 November 2025, with lights on daily from 16:00 – 22:00.
What’s the 2025 theme?
“The Promise of Change” — exploring transformation and sustainability through light.
How long is the walking route?
About 3 km, mostly flat and suitable for all ages.
Is it free?
Yes! Completely free and open to everyone.
Where’s the best place to start?
Begin near the Uppsala train station or Fyris River bridge — both connect to the main trail.
Can I bring a tripod?
Yes — photography is encouraged throughout the festival.
Are there guided tours?
Yes, in Swedish and English, often focusing on art, sustainability, or design.
Is it family-friendly?
Absolutely — interactive installations and short walking distances make it perfect for kids.
What’s the best time for photos?
Between 16:00–18:00 for blue-hour balance and fewer crowds later at night.
Is it easy to reach from Stockholm?
Yes, trains run every 30 minutes, taking just 40 minutes each way.