The 2026 edition is shaped by two anniversaries: the 120th anniversary of Vasarely’s birth and the 50th anniversary of the Vasarely Museum. Under the theme “Vasarely Plasti-Cité // Colorful City,” the festival explores optical illusion, movement, space, and the sensory impact of light.

One of the main highlights is once again the international projection mapping competition, which transforms the façade of the Pécs Cathedral into a nightly canvas. Artists from Italy, China, and Bulgaria compete for audience votes with works inspired by Vasarely’s artistic legacy.

Alongside this, the “Kiégő Izzók” collective presents a special tribute projection dedicated to Ferenc Martyn as part of the Irish focus programme.

A large-scale “Light Path” connects 15 sites in the city centre and 19 locations in the Zsolnay Quarter, showcasing Hungarian and international light artists. The Zsolnay Quarter and the Kodály Centre act as the main immersive hubs, hosting major installations designed for extended evening experiences.

Among the highlights is “Divine Geometry” by Latvian studio Those Guys Lighting at the Kodály Centre, a 30-minute laser and sound installation that has previously been noted for its strong emotional impact. In the Zsolnay Quarter, visitors can walk through Marc Vilanova’s illuminated “waterfall,” while Playmodes presents floating kinetic light sculptures created with lasers and robotic mirrors.

At the m21 Gallery, “Hommage à Vasarely by Light” opens as a major exhibition running through the summer. New works will also be shown by emerging artists from the Light Artist Colony.

In the city centre, several landmarks are reimagined through light installations. At the Cella Septichora Visitor Centre, a digital light entity appears trapped within a glass cube. Széchenyi Square becomes a large-scale projection space, while Jókai Square hosts the returning “Pixelbug” installation.

The Árkád shopping centre features a large LED work reflecting on the relationship between water, memory, nature, and technology.

On Theatre Square, New York’s Liquid Light Lab brings back analogue-inspired light performance aesthetics, referencing artists such as Kandinsky as well as the visual energy of Jimi Hendrix and early Pink Floyd. DJs from Tilos Radio add to the atmosphere, turning the space into a shared audiovisual experience. The site also forms part of the USA250 commemorations.

Over the four days, the festival programme also includes fire performances, acrobatics, street theatre, family activities, and late-night concerts and electronic music sets.

This year also features a dedicated Irish focus, including a cathedral projection honouring Ferenc Martyn, an “Irish Light Path” installation, a themed food courtyard on Káptalan Street, and additional music and dance programming.

Most outdoor installations in the city remain free to visit, while immersive indoor venues and the Zsolnay Quarter and Kodály Centre experiences require a Light Festival MAX wristband. More details are available via the festival’s official channels.

More: 
zsolnayfenyfesztival.hu / Facebook Event

*********************************************************************************************

You're very welcome to comment, discuss and enjoy more stories via our Facebook page: 

Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoop’s groups: Budapest Expats / Expats Hungary

You can subscribe to our newsletter here: XpatLoop.com/Newsletters

Showcase Your Business to Expats in the Loop:

As an independent portal we’re grateful to all commercial supporters who help keep you in the loop with fresh insights and inspiration. Do you want your business to reach tens of thousands of potential high-value expat customers? If so please contact us here.