Canary Wharf Winter Lights is one of my favourite ways to brighten up a London winter evening. I visited a previous edition and loved exploring the illuminated artworks around the area. The free festival returns from 19 to 30 January 2027, with a new theme: RE(IMAGINE).
Canary Wharf Winter Lights 2027: Quick Facts
- Location: Canary Wharf, London
- Dates: 19–30 January 2027
- Cost: Free
- 2027 theme: RE(IMAGINE)
- Artist line-up: To be announced in January 2027
- My review: Based on a previous edition of the festival
- My visit: Winter Lights 2023
My Experience at Canary Wharf Winter Lights
I visited Winter Lights for the first time in 2023 and had so much fun tracking down the installations and trying to capture each one. There were 22 artworks to find that year, including five from the permanent public art collection. The installations change, so the 2027 festival will offer a different experience.
Tips for Visiting Winter Lights
I recommend arriving early enough for a big lunch or an early dinner before exploring the lights. Canary Wharf has plenty of restaurants, and making a meal part of the evening is a lovely way to enjoy the area.
Some installations can get busy. During my 2023 visit, we waited around 30 minutes at one artwork, so allow extra time if you’re visiting at a popular hour.
For the latest festival information and the 2027 artist line-up when it’s announced, check the official Canary Wharf announcement.
The Installations I Saw in 2023
Artist line-up of WinterLights2023 :
- Bit. fall by Julius Popp
- The Clew by Ottotto
- PING by Gijs van Bon
- Permafrost – Sleeping Giants by Fisheye
- Continuum by Illumaphonium
- The Stars Come Out at Night by Stellar Projects
- Captivated by Colour by Camille Walala
- Intonaluci “The Light Snails” by Calidos
- Fragmented Appearances by Gertjan Adema
- We Could Meet by Martin Richman
- Elantica “The Boulder” by Tom&Lien Dekyvere
- You exist, here, now by The Fandangoe Kid
- in[visible] by Daniel Popescu
- Out of the Dark by Tom Lambert
- Glories by Richard William Wheater
- Anima by ELISAVA Barcelona School of Design and Engineering
- Toroid by This is Loop
- Lightbenches ‘Classic’ by LBO Lichtbank
- Emergence by This is Loop
- Fluorescent Firs
- Crystal Greenhouse by Shared Space and Light
- Floating Earth by Luke Jerram
What to Expect in 2027
Winter Lights returns to Canary Wharf from 19 to 30 January 2027 with the theme RE(IMAGINE). The festival is free, and the full artist line-up is due to be announced in January. The artworks I saw in 2023 are part of my past experience and may not appear in the new programme.
More London Light Festival Inspiration
If you enjoy exploring London’s light displays, read about my visit to the Battersea Light Festival in 2024. It felt more intimate than Canary Wharf Winter Lights and was a lovely place to catch up with a friend.
For more seasonal inspiration, explore my London Christmas lights walking guide or read about my experience of Guy Fawkes Night fireworks at Battersea Park. Check current dates and details before planning a visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Canary Wharf Winter Lights 2027?
The festival is scheduled for 19–30 January 2027.
Is Canary Wharf Winter Lights free?
Yes, the organiser says the festival is free to attend.
Are the 2023 installations returning in 2027?
The installations in this review are from my 2023 visit. The full 2027 artist line-up is due to be announced in January, so check the official programme for the latest details.
Getting to Canary Wharf by River
For a scenic alternative to the Tube or DLR, you could travel by Uber Boat. Services and stopping patterns vary, so check the timetable and make sure your chosen boat calls at Canary Wharf Pier.
Curious about the experience? Read my Uber Boat Greenwich to London Bridge guide to see what my journey was like.
Ad – Affiliate link: This post contains an affiliate link. If you book through it, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. My opinions and recommendations remain my own.
If travelling by river suits your plans, you can book an Uber Boat single journey. Check that your chosen service stops at Canary Wharf Pier and compare ticket options before booking. Winter Lights itself is free.
