Lichterfest am Schiffshebewerk Niederfinow

Engineering Art in Festive Lighting

The Niederfinow Ship Lift is one of Brandenburg's most important industrial monuments. The Old Ship Lift, built in 1934, has been lifting inland vessels 36 meters between the Oder-Havel Canal and the Oderhaff for over 90 years — today complemented by the New Ship Lift, which went into operation in 2022. Once a year — for the Lichterfest — they are illuminated at night.

Lichterfest 2026 — October 4

On Saturday, October 4, 2026, the ship lift celebrates its birthday with an atmospheric Lichterfest. The lifts will be bathed in colorful light, accompanied by:

• Evening tours every half hour from 7 PM to 9 PM at the New Ship Lift
• A candle concert inside the structure
• Free lockage trips on the historic salon ship of the association "Unser Finowkanal e.V." (registration requested, donations welcome)
• A photography workshop starting at 4 PM — "Architectural photography in twilight and darkness" with long exposures
• Catering and information stands in the outdoor area

Atmospheric Ambiance

As the sun sets and the lifts are gradually bathed in light, an extraordinary atmosphere arises by the water. The combined effect of the ton-heavy steel structure, the quietly gliding water masses, and the colorful light makes the festival an experience for all senses. Families are just as welcome as photo enthusiasts and technology lovers.

Arrival and Day Visit

You can combine the Lichterfest with a day visit to the ship lift: viewings take place daily in October 2026 from 9 AM to 6 PM. We recommend observing a lockage in the afternoon and transitioning into the evening illumination.