International Light Art Festival

BergparkLeuchten: 3.–6. October 2024

Look forward to BergparkLeuchten from 3 to 6 October 2024 in Kassel! Immerse yourself in a colourful production that combines light art, video projections and the element of water in a unique way - marvel at fantastic illuminations in the UNESCO World Heritage Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe.

Experience light art installations by international artists, 3D video projections on the facade of Schloss Wilhelmshöhe, moving light projections on the Hercules monument, the illuminated water games and a varied supporting programme as well as food and drinks at the Ballhaus.

You can find more information about the programme in our Ticketshop. Get your tickets including public transport now – the number of tickets is limited!

Get YOUR TICKETS INCLUDING PUBLIC TRAnSPORT

The programme of BergparkLeuchten

Treat yourself at the food stands at the Ballroom Building or browse through the stalls offering original products to your heart’s desire.
Musical entertainment is provided around the Ballroom Building.

Opening times for the food stands and other stalls:
- Thursday from 5.00 p.m.
- Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 4.00 p.m.

THURSDAY, 03.10.2024
17.00 – 00.00 Live-Music / Ballroom Building
19.30 – 00.00 International light art
No illuminated water features

FRIDAY, 04.10.2024
16.00 – 23.00 Live-Music / Ballroom Building
19.30 – 23.00 International light art
21.45 – 23.00 Illuminated water features

SATURDAY, 05.10.2024
16.00 – 23.00 Live-Music / Ballroom Building
19.30 – 23.00 International light art
21.45 – 23.00 Illuminated water features

SUNDAY, 06.10.2024
16.00 – 23.00 Live-Music / Ballroom Building
19.30 – 23.00 International light art
21.45 – 23.00 Illuminated water features

Impressive spectacle in new splendour:
the Illuminated Water Features

It is now more than 300 years since the baroque water features at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe cast a spell over the aristocratic viewers for the first time. The audience in those days had no idea that the sparkling spectacle looks particular impressive lit up by floodlights after dark. As part of the BergparkLeuchten, the water features stations will shine in a new, colorful light display on three days. From 4. to 6. October (Friday-Sunday) you can experience the illuminated water features in all their glory. At the feet of the illuminated Hercules monument, the cool water flows downwards, over the cascades, the Devil’s Bridge and the Aqueduct, before finally rising up in a more than 50-metre-high fountain in the pond in front of the castle.

Teufelsbrücke_Copyright Kassel Marketing GmbH Mario Zgoll.jpg

Times of the Illuminated Water Features

Start at Hercules monument: 9.45 p.m.
Devil's Bridge: 10.20 p.m.
Aqueduct and Peneus Cascades: 10.30 p.m.
Climax at the Fountain Pond: 11 p.m.

Please note: The Steinhöfer Waterfall is not part of the Illuminated Water Features! Due to construction work, there will be restrictions at Herkules.

Enjoy the following works of light art

"ALL ONE"
by Günther J. Schaefer

Seven golden light rings are suspended over a pond and project mysterious patterns of light onto the surface of the water. The installation combines sacred shapes with nature and provides a fascinating, sensory perspective on the connectedness of the world.

The German artist Günther J. Schaefer creates temporary light art installations that address the subjects of transience and life. In a magical, sacred atmosphere, his works encourage the viewer to reflect on our own feelings and existential questions and foster a deeper connection to nature and the inner being.

"REFUGE"
by Günther J. Schaefer

60 suspended floating stilt houses on wooden stilts produce a warm, atmospheric ambience in the twilight hours. Their luminous, fragile structures address the subjects of home, belonging and transience and provide an impressive other world.

The German artist Günther J. Schaefer creates temporary light art installations that address the subjects of transience and life. In a magical, sacred atmosphere, his works encourage the viewer to reflect on our own feelings and existential questions and foster a deeper connection to nature and the inner being.

"EXISTENCE"
by Chaos Engine Art Studio

An impressive steel structure in a dodecahedron design uses reflective foil panels and RGB LED strips to produce a fascinating light show. The work offers a profound, immersive experience and encourages us to reflect on existence and consciousness.

The Chaos Engine Art Studio from Denmark focuses on creating innovative public artworks that aim to bring people together and encourage reflection. Magnus and Jack combine technology and artistic vision to examine the perception of reality and create immersive experiences. Their artworks are intended to be visually impressive and durable and provide the viewer with new perspectives and food for thought.

"FINESTRA A FIORI" - FLOWER WINDOW
by Luminarie De Cagna

Floral windows come together to form a harmonious work that celebrates the beauty and diversity of nature. Each window tells its own story and provides a sensory experience through colours and fragrances. The artwork combines modern technology with traditional craftsmanship and honours the beauty and progression of nature.

For more than 80 years, Luminarie De Cagna has combined art and craftsmanship in impressive illuminated architecture. The family-run company, now in its third generation, creates illuminated decorations that honour tradition and make use of modern technology to reinforce a sense of community and cultural identity.

"FIREFLY FIELD"
by Studio Toer

This light installation simulates the movements of fireflies with a number of floating LED points, which produce a dynamic bioluminescence. The lights are reflected in the grassy slope and create an impressive, magical atmosphere that combines the natural grace of the fireflies with modern technology.

Toer, established in the Netherlands in 2011, is a design studio that pushes technical and aesthetic boundaries and reflects the creative heritage of the Netherlands with experimental light installations and interactive experiences.

"PATH OF LOVE"
by Studio Sensito

Glowing hearts represent various forms of love and create an atmosphere of security and joy. Visitors can add their own hearts, share stories and discover new details, whilst experiencing the magic of love.

Studio Sensito, an international collective from Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark and Belgium, uses sophisticated lighting technology to create surprising and light-sensitive artworks that actively involve the viewer. Their works can be seen around the world, including on the European Light Tour.

"WATERWAY"
by Andreas Boehlke

A water projection transforms the idea of crossing the water into a fascinating reality. Here, visitors can cross the water and reach the other side safely and without getting wet and enjoy the impressive artwork without experiencing seasickness.

Andreas Boehlke, a lighting designer and entrepreneur from Berlin, is known for innovative lighting solutions and energy-efficient advice. He also demonstrates social commitment, for example through the City Stiftung Berlin and the Festival of Lights. Special projects include the illumination of important Berlin landmarks and national celebrations.

"GATE INTO OTHER DIMENSIONS"
by Andreas Boehlke

The UV tunnel provides a unique experience and allows the view to immerse themselves in an abstract reality. Luminescent floor elements intensify the visual experience and create a fascinating atmosphere that engages perception in a new way.

Andreas Boehlke, a lighting designer and entrepreneur from Berlin, is known for innovative lighting solutions and energy-efficient advice. He also demonstrates social commitment, for example through the City Stiftung Berlin and the Festival of Lights. Special projects include the illumination of important Berlin landmarks and national celebrations.

„GAZE PROJECTION“ by Shpresa Faqi x MiKi Lazar x Andreas Boehlke

As darkness falls, six luminous images unfold in the heart of the Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe and appear to be floating in the park. This installation captures the essence and hidden beauties of nature with its elements. The projected motifs invite the viewer to immerse themselves in a world of magnified details that often remain unnoticed.

How to get to the BergparkLeuchten

>> PUBLIC TRANSPORT
An event ticket entitles the holder to travel on public transport in the NVV tariff area from two hours before the event begins to two hours after the event ends (without any extra charges) - for an easy and environmentally friendly journey to Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe. And when night becomes day: between midnight and 5 a.m., Schaddel will take you safely home in and around the city of Kassel. You can find all the information about this at kvg-schaddel.de

>> CAR
No parking spaces are available in the immediate vicinity of the event room. Click here for parking information.

>> CAB
Info on car sharing, rental cars, cabs and minicars can be found online. Click here for parking information.

>> BICYCLE
Specially equipped parking areas for about 300 bicycles are available in the immediate vicinity of the event space, at the "Marstall".

>> SHUTTLE BUS
Take our shuttle bus from the Wilhelmshöhe (Park) stop to Wilhelmshöhe Palace. The journey costs EUR 2.00. Children under 6 years of age and holders of a disabled pass with the codes G, aG, H, GI and BI travel free of charge.

Overview plan of the BergparkLeuchten

During your visit, please note:

SAFETY RULES

Always stay on the marked park and event paths.
Do not walk or climb on rocks.
Do not climb on structures.
Structures should only be accessed using the marked steps and paths.
To avoid congestion, do not stop on the steps.
Requests from the security personnel must be followed immediately.
Dogs must be kept on a short lead and dog waste must be disposed of immediately.
Cycling is prohibited throughout the event area.

SAFETY TIPS

You will ascend more than 200 metres during your visit.
Some of BergparkLeuchten can only be experienced on foot.
Although the paths are largely well paved, their suitability for people with walking difficulties and wheelchair users is limited.
There are no handrails on the steps by the baroque cascades (500 steps).
The baroque cascades are not designed for disabled access.
Visitors who rely on walking aids (e.g. wheelchair, walking frame, etc.), should only arrive via the palace side.
You are strongly recommended to bring a torch with you in order to safely use the paths, which are unlit in places.
You attend the event and enter the park at your own risk. Parents are responsible for their children.

REQUIREMENTS FOR ATTENDANCE

Sturdy shoes are strongly recommended.
Surefootedness and good physical fitness are essential for visiting the park.

In addition, the latest version of the Park Regulations for Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe in the State of Hesse also applies.