Leipzig Festival of Lights

Am 9 October 1989 More than 70.000 people gathered in Leipzig to demonstrate for freedom and democracy. The city commemorates this important event every year with the Leipzig Festival of Lights, which takes place on the Peaceful Revolution in autumn 1989 Light installations, mapping, and performances invite reflection on history as well as an exploration of the values of freedom and democracy.

As well on 9 October 2025 The Leipzig Festival of Lights will once again present a diverse program that focuses on the significance of the events of 1989. We cordially invite everyone to join us on this special day and keep the memories of the Peaceful Revolution alive together.

Further information on the Leipzig Festival of Lights 2025 will follow at a later date.

Leipzig Festival of Lights 2024 Image gallery Autumn 89

Leipzig Festival of Lights

on October 9th

With the cries of "We are the people" and "No violence" people gathered on 9 October 1989 70.000 people marched along Leipzig's inner-city ring road to demonstrate for freedom and democracy, thus paving the way for the fall of the Berlin Wall and the unification of Germany and Europe. The dramatic events of the fall of 1989 still resonate today.

The people of Leipzig keep this memory alive every year in many different ways, especially the commemoration of October 9. The focus on this day is Peace prayer, Speech on democracy and Leipzig Festival of Lights.

Remembering together

Leipzig Festival of Lights with candlelight celebratory event of the Peaceful Revolution in autumn 89 in Leipzig — © Philipp Kirschner/LTM

Leipzig residents and visitors to the city commemorate the historic events together at the original locations. Exhibitions, panel discussions, film screenings, readings, and many other formats reach thousands of visitors of all generations each year. The numerous commemorative events have been coordinated for many years by the Initiative "Day of the Peaceful Revolution – Leipzig October 9, 1989"It includes citizens, organizations, institutions, museums, and other organizations that have a direct connection to the fall of 1989. The initiative is supported by the City of Leipzig.

The responsibility for the thematic focus of the Peaceful Revolution celebrations and the accompanying programs lies with the Advisory Board "Board of Trustees Peaceful Revolution 1989". Leipzig Tourism and Marketing GmbH is responsible for the Festival of Lights.