The highly anticipated Signal Festival of Light, now entering its second decade of existence, is set to dazzle the streets of Prague once again in its 11th edition. Following a monumental tenth-anniversary celebration last year, this spectacular event consistently draws hundreds of thousands of visitors to the heart of the Czech capital. So, what can attendees expect at this year’s event?

When and Where The Signal Festival 2023 is scheduled to take place from Thursday, October 12th, to Sunday, October 15th, 2023. The festival will run from 7 pm to midnight each day, ensuring that visitors can immerse themselves in the mesmerizing light installations and performances under the cover of night.

Festival Theme and Fresh Identity This year, the festival introduces a new three-year theme cycle titled “Ecosystems,” which delves into the intricate connections between science, technology, the environment, and art within our society. Accompanying this theme, a brand-new visual identity has been unveiled, designed by the talented graphic duo Jan Brož and Jan Novák, with the assistance of artificial intelligence.

In its inaugural year, “Ecosystems 01: Exploration” will immerse festival-goers in the realms of artificial intelligence, natural elements, mathematics, biology, poetics, and drama.

Festival Program The festival program for 2023 has been revealed, promising a captivating experience. Attendees can explore two primary routes, the innovative “Satellites” project, new locations, and the ever-popular video mappings.

The “Centrum” route will guide visitors through iconic locations such as Old Town Square, Fruit Market, Republic Square, and Senovážné Square. The “Karlín/Holešovice” route will lead attendees to the Museum, the Karlín Barracks, Kooperativa headquarters, and the Holešovice Market.

The “Satellites” project will feature three permanent art installations in public spaces across Prague, including the concrete sculpture “Aerial” by Federico Díaz at the Bořislavka Centre.

Video mappings, a highlight of the festival, will adorn two iconic Prague buildings. “Echo,” presented at Karlín Square’s Church of St. Cyril and Methodius, explores themes of nature, the environment, and the connection between humanity and natural processes. “Luminary Glyphs” will illuminate the Municipal Library building on Mariánské náměstí, blending history and modern technology in a creation by Hungarian artist András László Nagy.

Map and App Attendees can access the festival map and program easily through the festival’s app, available for both iOS and Android mobile phones. Alternatively, information can be found on the festival website or designated “lightpoints” near each installation. Printed maps are also available at the box office for paid installations.

Tickets and Ticket Prices The Signal Festival offers two ticket options: “Signal Plus” and “Signal VIP.” “Signal Plus” includes access to seven exclusive installations within the gallery zone. “Signal VIP” offers the same perks as “Signal Plus,” along with skip-the-line privileges, early admission, and a welcome drink at select venues. Notably, most of the festival program remains free of charge.

As the Signal Festival embarks on its second decade, it continues to harmoniously blend contemporary visual art, urban spaces, and cutting-edge technology, making it one of the Czech Republic’s most attended cultural events. Its roots trace back to 2010 when a video mapping event celebrated the 600th anniversary of the Old Town Clock, and it has since grown into a prominent platform for light art in the Czech Republic. Don’t miss this captivating event that promises to light up the night and your imagination.

Article by Prague Forum