Festival of Lights on the Old Market

Frederick the Great and His City

Frederick II – "Old Fritz" – is Potsdam's historical figurehead. He was born in Berlin on January 24, 1712, later ruled from Potsdam, and left behind an architectural legacy in his summer residence Sanssouci, the City Palace, and the entire urban layout, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Every year on January 24th, the Festival of Lights commemorates his birthday – a civic gesture that also connects to a legend from his life.

The Legend of the Light Greeting

According to legend, when their king returned to Potsdam after a long absence, citizens of Potsdam placed candles and lamps in their windows – a silent, luminous greeting. In 2012, for Frederick II's 300th birthday, this tradition was revived by the Potsdam Museum. Since then, the Festival of Lights has been an annual event in January, adding a luminous moment to Potsdam's winter city life.

Lantern Crafting and Gathering on the Market Square

From 2 PM, the Potsdam Museum and the Museum Barberini offer lantern crafting for children and adults – the finished lanterns are brought to the Old Market. At 4:30 PM, the central gathering of lights begins there: The brass choir plays evening songs on the steps of St. Nicholas' Church, and a bonfire burns in the square. If the weather is unfavorable, the event moves inside St. Nicholas' Church.

Accompanying Program at the Museums

For the Festival of Lights, Potsdam's museums often open with reduced admission or free entry: tower climbs, guided tours, and children's activities complement the program. Street food stalls offering bratwurst, mulled wine, and winter specialties cater to the audience in the square.

An Event for Families

The Festival of Lights is a classic winter family festival that attracts school classes, families, and tourists from Berlin alike. Those who want to experience Potsdam beyond the peak summer season will find a atmospheric event here in Brandenburg's best urban backdrop.