Glow Up: 7 Illuminating Destinations for Light Lovers Around the World

1. Lantern Festival, Zigong, China

An ancient festival with its roots in the Western Han Dynasty, thousands of lighted paper lanterns rise into the night sky to create a magical scene. During the festival, children solve riddles on the lanterns, while for adults, letting go of a lantern can symbolize releasing past problems. The lanterns are almost always red to symbolize good fortune. While the festival is celebrated across China, the best place for viewing is Zigong in the Sichuan Province, where lantern making has been elevated to an incredible art form. The festival typically falls in February or March, coinciding with the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations.

2. Neon Lights, Las Vegas, USA

One of the best ways to celebrate the beauty of light is to visit the "City of Lights" itself. According to NASA, the Las Vegas Strip is reputed to be the brightest spot on earth because of the sheer concentration of bulbs. Along with billions of LEDs, there’s an estimated 15,000 miles of neon tubing on the strip alone. For a deep dive into the history of this glitz, visit the Neon Museum Boneyard, where iconic old neon signs go to retire and shine once more.

3. Marfa Lights, Texas, USA

These mysterious lights appear sporadically above the Chihuahuan desert east of Marfa. Described as basketball-sized, these glowing orbs hover, twinkle, merge, and dart across Mitchell Flat. No one really knows what they are—speculations range from atmospheric reflections to paranormal activity. While they can be elusive, the dedicated viewing platform offers your best chance at catching this natural light show.

4. Northern Lights, Abisko, Sweden

The Northern Lights are nature's most amazing show, and Abisko is widely considered one of the best places on Earth to catch them. At the Aurora Sky Station, you are 125 miles inside the Arctic Circle and far from any light pollution. You can take a chairlift up to the station to absorb the impact of the Aurora Borealis and millions of stars. For the best viewing, plan your visit between September and March when the nights are longest and darkest.

5. Glow Worms, Waitomo, New Zealand

In the daylight, these tiny creatures might seem ordinary, but by night, they create a breathtaking display of bioluminescence. Thousands of these tiny "worms" (actually gnat larvae) inhabit the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. You can float through the caverns on a boat, gazing at ceilings that glow like a vivid, starry night. Located about three hours from Auckland, it’s a must-see for anyone who loves natural wonders.

6. Fluorescence, Amsterdam, Netherlands

If you prefer your light displays with a side of art and history, head to Electric Ladyland in Amsterdam. This is the first museum of its kind, dedicated entirely to fluorescent art and minerals. It’s a "participatory" museum where you descend into an underground gallery filled with surreal, glowing sculptures and magical atmospheres. Note that visits are strictly by appointment, so be sure to book your time slot in advance to explore this hidden dayglo world.

7. The Festival of Lights, Berlin, Germany

Every October, Berlin transforms into a giant outdoor art gallery for the Festival of Lights. Famous landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Cathedral become canvases for spectacular light projections and 3D mappings. You can take a light-seeing tour by bus, boat, or Segway, but simply walking through the city at night and ogling the free displays is an experience in itself. It's a fantastic example of how cities can celebrate culture through light, much like the Thai festivals known for their vibrant spectacles.

Quick Guide to Light Festivals

These places will definitely light up your travel bucket list! Have you ever visited a destination specifically for its light displays, or do you have a favorite local festival that shines bright?