5 + 1 Tips for darkening evenings in the City of Light

Darkening evenings offer an opportunity to embrace the atmosphere. Do you prefer admiring light art installations around the city or enjoying the silence while gazing at the starry sky? With these five tips, you can make the most of the darkening evenings in Jyväskylä Region.

Photo: Juhana Konttinen

1. Spot the lighting installations

Even though the couch and a cozy blanket might be tempting, why not step outside and fill the dark season with light? Jyväskylä offers over a hundred permanent lighting installations that delight both locals and tourists alike. Bring a thermos of warm drink and head out for a walk to enjoy the city’s beautifully illuminated sights.

The Vesilinna Observation Tower and Kuokkala Bridge are great spots to admire the cityscape’s sea of lights. You can also explore the City of Light route, which features over 20 illuminated sites.

Photo: Winterlight City of Light

2. Experience the City of Light Event

Since 2003, the City of Light event has been held annually in Jyväskylä, bringing a changing selection of light artworks by both Finnish and international artists to the city streets and corners at the end of September. This year, the works will once again delight locals and visitors from September 25-27, 2024.

You can admire the artworks in places like Tourujoki, Kompassi, Kirkkopuisto, and Mattilanniemi. Use the free City of Light app to plan your own route and ensure you don’t miss your favorite spots. The app can be downloaded from the app store.

Photo: Tero Riihinen

3. See the northern lights with your own eyes

As autumn and winter nights gets darker, nature offers its own light shows. The darker the autumn evenings get, the more Jyväskylä Region’s nature shines.

In the Jyväskylä Region, you can witness the colorful glow of the northern lights and a bright starry sky, especially from late August to March. If the weather conditions are favorable, you’ll experience an unforgettable display in the sky. Check out the best tips for spotting the northern lights and head into nature.

Photo: Laajis

4. Embark on a Magical Light Adventure

Autumn darkness adds a thrilling twist to the Laajavuori Adventure Park when atmospheric lighting is created for the Light Adventure. This magical climbing experience is the perfect way to combine physical activity with the enchantment of light. More information can be found on the Laajis website.

Photo: Maris Grunskis

5. Get into the Christmas spirit at the Christmas Lightland

As winter approaches, Jyväskylä’s Church Park transforms into a magical Christmas Lightland, enchanting visitors year after year with its stunning light installations. Since 2019, the park has featured massive light-up reindeer, Christmas balls, a light fountain, and Santa’s light horses.

Take a peek at Christmas Lightland on Instagram with the hashtag #jouluvalomaa and start getting into the Christmas spirit!

Photo: Julia Kivelä.

+ Be part of the City of Light

Although a lit-up city brings light and a sense of safety, remember to also wear a reflector in the dark. By wearing a reflector, you become part of the City of Light and protect the most valuable illuminated objects – yourself and your loved ones.

Also, remember to share your experiences from the City of Light and Jyväskylä Region on Instagram with the hashtag #visitjyvaskylaregion.

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