London's iconic Battersea Power Station is preparing to cast its radiant glow across the capital once more, as the popular Winter Lights Festival confirms its return for a fifth spectacular year.
Illuminating the Capital: Festival Dates and Details
The mesmerising light trail is scheduled to bathe the Grade II listed landmark in colour throughout the winter of 2026. While organisers are finalising the official schedule, the event is expected to run from Wednesday, January 22, through to Saturday, February 22, following the pattern of previous years.
This marks the fifth anniversary of the festival, which first illuminated the power station in 2020, prior to the site's public opening in 2022. What began as a modest display featuring just four installations has blossomed into a major winter attraction. In 2025, visitors enjoyed seven diverse artworks, ranging from neon yarn sculptures to engaging interactive pieces.
A Free Spectacle for All
In welcome news for Londoners and visitors, the Battersea Power Station Light Festival remains a non-ticketed, completely free event. Everyone is invited to explore the outdoor illuminations at their leisure, making it an accessible highlight of the city's cultural calendar.
The light trail will be operational daily, with the installations lit from 5:00 am until 10:00 pm. For the most breathtaking experience, planning a visit after dusk is highly recommended, as the artworks truly come to life against the dark winter sky.
What to Expect in 2026
Although the specific installations for the 2026 festival are yet to be unveiled, the event has established a reputation for showcasing innovative and large-scale light art. Each year has seen the festival expand in scale and ambition, promising an even more impressive array of works for its fifth birthday edition.
The combination of the power station's monumental architecture and cutting-edge light art creates a unique visual experience, drawing crowds and transforming the riverside area into a must-visit winter destination.
