About FILUX Festival of Lights
The Festival Internacional de las Luces México (FILUX) is an annual lighting event in Mexico, held to bring people together and reclaim public spaces through a mix of high-tech art and nighttime culture.
This lighting event features stunning light art that turns urban spaces into an open-air gallery where spectators can immerse themselves in creative and imaginative displays.
This year’s edition titled “Solo la luz, Primavera,” showcased 13 monumental sculptures and immersive pieces from both local and international artists.
Featured Lighting Displays:
- Light Projections — These digital displays use building facades as giant canvases to tell vibrant visual stories.
- Interactive Displays — These setups actually respond to your movement or touch, making you a part of the art itself.
- Light Art Installations — You’ll find unique pieces in plazas and other urban spaces that use light to convey a message or simply to inspire awe.
- Light Sculptures — These are 3D structures and are the centerpieces of the festival. These displays vary in forms and sizes, perfectly capturing everyone’s imagination.
Festival Dates
The dates for the FILUX Festival of Lights vary. In 2025, the event was held in October and some previous editions were even held in November and December.
The recently concluded event for this year took place from March 20 to 29, 2026, giving nine days of unforgettable experience for those who attended.
Dates for the next edition are yet to be announced by the organizers, so if you wish to attend this event, stay tuned or visit the festival’s official website for the latest updates.
Where It’s Located and How to Get There
The FILUX Festival of Lights takes place in different cities across Mexico, as the event is known for moving around and bringing its glowing installations to new public spaces each year. For the most recent “Solo la luz, Primavera” edition, the festival settled right in the heart of Mexico City.
For this March run, the large-scale light sculptures stretched across a 1.5-kilometer section of Paseo de la Reforma, creating a vibrant and easy-to-follow route through one of the city’s most famous avenues.
If you’re flying in from outside the country, Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) is the most convenient arrival point.
Traveling to the Festival from Outside Mexico:
- Direct International Flights — You can fly non-stop to Mexico City (MEX) from major global hubs such as London, Madrid, Paris, Bogotá, and Tokyo.
- North American Connections — Travelers from the U.S. and Canada have plenty of options, with frequent direct flights from cities like Los Angeles, Houston, New York City, and Toronto.
- Inter-City Shuttles and Buses — If you arrive at Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU), you’ll need to take a shuttle or bus into the city center before heading to the festival route.
- Connecting Regional Routes — For travelers coming from smaller international cities, it’s common to have a short layover in major hubs like Dallas or Miami before continuing on to Mexico City.
For the latest updates on festival location, stay tuned or visit the festival’s official website. And if you liked this festival, you can also check out these other fantastic lighting events from across the world:
Festival Hours
The light installations and displays are typically illuminated from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM daily, giving visitors four hours of breathtaking art and imaginative attractions.
If you wish to make the most of the festival, it is smart to take note of this schedule. It’ll also help you make better plans ahead so you can enjoy the festival without a glitch.
Take note, however, that these hours are from the recently concluded edition. For the next edition, hours may change or vary slightly so it’s always best to check with the event’s official website for the most up-to-date information.
How Much Does It Cost to See the FILUX Festival of Lights
One of the great things about the festival is that it’s completely free to attend, so you can just walk right up and start exploring all the displays no matter what your budget is.
However, it is still wise to bring some extra cash in your pocket for food and drinks or unique souvenirs that you may chance upon while exploring the lights.
Weather and What to Wear
Since the festival dates change from year to year, it’s always a good idea to check the forecast for the specific edition you’re planning to attend, as weather in Mexico can shift quite a bit between seasons.
If you’re visiting in March, you can expect mostly dry and comfortable days, with temperatures around 26°C. But once the sun goes down, it cools off quickly—sometimes dropping to a crisp 10°C.
If the festival happens in October, you can expect cooler afternoons, usually around 23°C, and there’s also a higher chance of light rain. Nights feel even chillier, often dipping to about 9°C
To stay cozy and comfortable, here’s what to wear and bring:
- Light Jacket or Windbreaker — This will come in handy once the evening air settles in.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes — You’ll be doing quite a bit of walking, so a good pair of sneakers makes all the difference.
- Breathable Layers — A simple combo like a t-shirt with a sweater works well. You can stay cool during the early evening and still be ready for the drop in temperature later on.
- Compact Umbrella — If you’re visiting during an October edition, it’s smart to keep a small umbrella in your bag. Quick evening drizzles can show up without much warning.
Where to Stay
If you’re looking for an accommodation to stay while attending the festival, here are some hotels for you to choose from:
- Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City — This 5-star hotel feels like a quiet escape in the middle of the city. The courtyard is beautiful, and the outdoor pool is perfect for a refreshing dip during the day. After a long evening walk along, you can relax in the hot tub or wind down with a drink at the on-site bar. There’s also free Wi-Fi, so sharing your festival photos is quick and easy.
- Hotel Emporio Ciudad de México — This elegant 5-star hotel has a cozy coffee shop for your morning boost, plus a fitness center if you want to stay active. Free Wi-Fi and parking make things even more convenient, and there’s even a small on-site shop if you end up needing a new pair of walking shoes.
- Exe Alameda Reforma — This 4-star option is a comfortable and practical base for your trip. You’ll have free Wi-Fi, parking, and even access to an outdoor pool. After hours of walking between installations, the hot tub is a welcome treat. It’s a relaxing place that keeps you just a short stroll away from the festival lights.
Where to Eat
For a delicious meal while exploring the festival displays, here are some local dining spots you can try out:
- El Cardenal — This is one of those classic spots people keep coming back to. It’s especially loved for breakfast and lunch, with dishes that really highlight traditional flavors. You can go for something hearty like enchiladas with rich red sauce, or try the omelette de flor de calabaza for something a bit different. And before you leave, a chocolate croissant is always a good idea.
- Ling Ling by Hakkasan — Sitting high above the city inside The Ritz-Carlton Mexico City, this place is all about the view. The terrace gives you a stunning look at the skyline, especially as the lights come on at night. The menu leans Asian-inspired, with creative dishes like birria dumplings and tuna tartare with crispy rice. If you’re in the mood for something simple but well done, the salmon flameado is a solid pick.
- Pujol — If you want a meal that feels like an experience on its own, this is the place. Known around the world, Pujol takes traditional Mexican ingredients and reimagines them in a more refined way. You can go all in with the tasting menu or try the taco omakase bar. Either way, you’ll get a deeper appreciation for the roots of Mexican cooking, presented in a thoughtful and creative style.
More Things to Do in the Area
If you’re planning to extend your trip beyond the FILUX Festival of Lights, here are just some of the attractions you can check out:
- Bosque de Chapultepec — This huge urban park is like a breath of fresh air right in the middle of the city. It’s the kind of place where you can slow things down for a bit. Pack a picnic, find a quiet patch of grass, or just wander around and enjoy the greenery. If you’re with family, there are play areas for kids, and even a space where you can bring your dog along.
- Museo Soumaya — You’ll probably notice this one right away. The building itself is hard to miss, with its curved, silver exterior catching the light from every angle. Step inside, and it opens up into multiple levels of galleries filled with everything from classic European sculptures to modern Mexican works. It’s easy to lose track of time here.
- Chapultepec Castle — Sitting high above the park, this historic castle offers some of the best views in the city. The walk up is part of the experience, giving you little glimpses of the skyline along the way. Once you reach the top, you can explore its grand halls and learn about its history, all while standing about 2,325 meters above sea level.
A Glowing Conclusion: Final Words on FILUX Festival of Lights
The FILUX Festival of Lights offers an experience of a lifetime with all its captivating and awe-inspiring light exhibitions that seem to transport the audience into a different world.
With all its innovative and imaginative displays, it’s easily one of those events that you’ll remember with a smile on your face even after many years have passed.
Add to that, all the nearby attractions and places to discover, and you’ll surely have a festival of lights that you’ll look forward to each year.
So what are you waiting for? Stay tuned for the latest information and make your travel plans in advance. The FILUX Festival of Lights is something you certainly should not miss.
FAQ
- Is the FILUX Festival of Lights a family-friendly event?
- Yes, the festival is an inclusive event designed for all ages.
- Are dogs or other pets allowed at the festival?
- Since most exhibits are located in public spaces, you are welcome to bring your leashed pets along.
- Is the festival route accessible for people with disabilities or strollers?
- The entire route stays on the flat, paved pedestrian areas of one of the city’s main avenues, making it very easy for wheels.
- Is there dedicated parking available for festival attendees?
- The festival does not provide official parking, so you will need to find a spot in nearby private garages or on the surrounding streets.
- Can I bring my own food and drinks to the event?
- You can definitely carry your own snacks, but there are also plenty of local vendors and restaurants right along the path.
- Are there public restrooms available along the festival path?
- There are no dedicated portable toilets for the event, but you can use the facilities in nearby shopping centers and cafes.
- Is photography allowed at the light installations?
- Taking photos is highly encouraged, though it’s best to leave large tripods at home to avoid blocking the busy sidewalks.
- Is smoking permitted while walking through the exhibits?
- While it is an outdoor event, smoking is generally discouraged in the crowded viewing areas out of respect for other visitors.
Sources: https://www.filux.info/
https://cdmxsecreta.com/en/paseo-de-la-reforma-light-exhibition-spring-filux-2026/
