Lichtfest Leipzig 2024: A versatile anniversary for the peaceful revolution

Von Kl Redaktion

On October 9, 2024, Leipzig will set a radiant sign of memory, because the city celebrates the 35th anniversary of the peaceful revolution with the Leipzig light festival. From 7 p.m. to midnight, the impressive inner city ring, which extends along the authentic demonstration route, becomes the scene of numerous artistic performances. Over 20 artists from a wide variety of countries have come together to transform the events of 1989 into an impressive play of light. Through מ Appings, projections, music and performances you will create a unique experience that should touch the hearts of tens of thousands.

The first part of the evening will begin on Augustusplatz, where Mayor Burkhard Jung, contemporary witnesses and representatives of the federal and state governments will honor the importance of the annual day in short greetings. The Saxon wind philharmonic will accompany the opening musically and thus contribute to the festive atmosphere. Zero step of traditional candle ceremonies shape the image of the light festival. The oversized candle, also known as Candle-89, will be on Augustusplatz and invite visitors to add their own tea lights.

a new light festival concept

This year the light festival is enriched by numerous innovations. One of the most exciting additions is the Lichtfest XXL, which will present five special light projects from October 10th to 12th, 2024, radiantly beyond the light festival. This includes works such as "Where does the hero come from?" By Eunjin Park am Nikolaikirchhof and "Blue Wundar" by Maix Mayer on the Goerdelerring. These projects offer citizens the opportunity to enjoy art over several days.

In addition, the digital adventure tour via the "Explore Leipzig - City Tours" app will be accessible. This mobile application enables guests to experience the tour of the city center in both German and in English, supplemented by an audio version that conveys the extensive information on the light projects.

sustainability and social contribution

The social component of the light festival is particularly worth mentioning. Visitors are invited to take over a symbolic candlestick for the candle-89. The proceeds from this flows to the wolf strands e. V., who stands by grieving children and adolescents who have lost a close relative. This not only creates awareness of the concerns of affected groups, but also shows the city's commitment in social matters.

Another step towards sustainability is symbolized by the use of 20,000 reusable cups from 100% recyclable plastic. The organizers ask the guests not to take these cups home during the festival and instead leave them for future events. This makes a contribution to environmental protection that is more important than ever in times of climate awareness and resource conservation.

a sign of cultural attachment

Suitable for the anniversary, partner cities of Leipzig, such as Frankfurt am Main, Krakau, Lyon and Brno, will also be present with their own projects at the light festival. This international dimension increases the importance of the event, which celebrates cultural connection and memory of the peaceful revolution not only in Leipzig, but also beyond its borders.

The city of Leipzig also supports innovative projects with a special funding of 80,000 euros in order to keep the 1989 heritage alive and to specifically include children and adolescents. Over 20 civil society initiatives are working to develop new forms of memory and anchor the history of the peaceful revolution in the present. This shows how important the city is to integrate the teachings from the past into the everyday life of current generations.

The organization of the light festival is in the hands of Leipzig Tourismus und Marketing GmbH, while the thematic orientation is responsible for an advisory board, consisting of 19 members. This advisory board brings together various perspectives and experiences to ensure that the spirit of the peaceful revolution remains alive in the celebrations.

The light festival is therefore not only an important artistic event, but also a platform for social responsibility, sustainable practices and cultural identity that the city of Leipzig brings together and connects over the years.

A look at the history of the peaceful revolution

The peaceful revolution in the GDR was a decisive chapter in German history, which ultimately led to the fall of the wall and to reunification. The roots of this movement can be traced back to the late 1980s, when repression and dissatisfaction with the regime ruled in the entire GDR. Important events, such as the Monday demonstrations in Leipzig, mobilized the population and strengthened the desire for basic political changes.

The role of events such as the light festival is central to the culture of remembrance, as they appreciate the courage of many citizens and celebrate the idea of ​​democracy and freedom. The teachings from this time are still relevant today, and the events offer an opportunity to reflect on and pass on these values. The murder of the Hungarian refugee Paul Schneider or the massive police force in the protests are just a few memories that illustrate the complex course of these events.

social effects of the light festival

The light festival of Leipzig is not only viewed as a cultural event, but also has deeper social implications. It promotes the sense of community and lets the city's citizens come together to reflect and celebrate history. The examination of the past is particularly important for young people who have not experienced the events of 1989 themselves.

By various projects that are promoted by the city, new forms of memory are being developed that aim to pass on the 1989 inheritance to the next generation. This initiative is particularly important to keep the historical context of the peaceful revolution alive and to strengthen the social values ​​of freedom and tolerance.

statistics on number of participants and reactions

The number of participants at the light festival has grown continuously in recent years. For example, over 300,000 people visited the event in 2019. Such figures not only show the great interest in the solemnity, but also the importance of the light festival in the collective memory and identity of the city of Leipzig. Events of this kind not only attract local visitors, but also have international response, which contributes to promoting cultural exchange.

In order to measure the reactions of the participants, surveys were carried out, which showed that over 85% of visitors see the light festival as an important way to deal with history and celebrate the values ​​of peace and freedom. Such data show how relevant and necessary this memory work is today.