Olafur Eliasson: Long daylight pavilion, 2025. Kruunuvuorenranta, Helsinki. © Olafur Eliasson. Photo: HAM / Maija ToivanenHelsinki is embracing the darker winter months with light art that enhances its urban landscape and everyday life for residents. Known for its dramatic seasonal changes in daylight, the Finnish capital has integrated permanent light artworks into its architecture and public spaces. The Kruunuvuorenranta neighbourhood, in particular, has earned the nickname “district of light”.
Kruunuvuorenranta uses illumination to shape its architecture and landscape, creating a safe and welcoming environment. The initiative follows the City's Percent for Art principle, which allocates approximately one per cent of public construction budgets to art. The neighbourhood will become more accessible when tram services launch on 7 November 2026, connecting it to central Helsinki via the new Kruunuvuorensilta bridge.
Marjut Kauppinen, lighting manager for the City of Helsinki, emphasised the importance of integrating light art into the design process. “Every block under construction in Kruunuvuorenranta goes through a light art concept review,” she said.
Notable installations include Öljysäiliö 468, a former oil tank transformed into a light artwork, and Olafur Eliasson's Long daylight pavilion. The pavilion features 24 illuminated poles that reflect the sun's path on the longest day of the year.
Beyond Kruunuvuorenranta, Helsinki's public spaces come alive with light during the festive season. The Lux Helsinki light art festival will run from 30 December 2026 to 6 January 2027. Under the theme “Light between the worlds”, the festival will feature 14 installations, transforming the iconic Senate Square with light, colour and music.
These initiatives highlight Helsinki's commitment to enriching urban life through light art. By making art accessible year-round, the city continues to enhance its public spaces and offer residents and visitors new ways to experience the Finnish capital.
Helsinki Christmas Market
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