Island of Light Smögen 2026
Island of Light Smögen is an international light art festival in Smögen that brings light artists from eight countries. The cliffs, boathouses, and sea become the stage for site-specific works by artists from around the world. Smögen is less than a two-hour drive from Gothenburg.
Experience the light art festival — 4-13 September, 2026
Island of Light Smögen is special because it brings international light art into striking contrast with the backdrop of Smögen's town and rocky coastline, and can be experienced from both land and sea.
Since the festival takes place on an island rather than in a city, there's far less light pollution — letting the artworks and nature interact in a much more powerful way.
Photographer: Green Traveller
About Smögen
Smögen is less than a two-hour drive from Gothenburg, on the west coast of Sweden in the Bohuslän archipelago. Originally a fishing village, it has grown into one of the region's most visited coastal destinations while keeping much of its maritime character intact.
Photographer:
The heart of Smögen is Smögenbryggan, an almost 800-metre-long pier where old boathouses have been converted into shops, cafés, and restaurants. Visitors can walk along the harbour, watch the boat life, and sample locally caught seafood, with several places open year-round.
Practical information about the festival
Parking
It is appreciated if visitors park their cars outside of Smögen and join the Island of Light buses from parking places in Kungshamn and Väjern.
Travelling without car?
The nearest train station is Gothenburg Central Station. From there, take Västtrafik bus 860 from the Nils Ericson Terminal straight to Smögen bus station.
Places to stay
- Smögens Hafvsbad Spa & Hotell
- Utpost Hållö
- Ramsvik Stugby & Camping
- Johannesvik Camping & stugby
- Hotell Kungshamn Suites
Food
Photographer: Asaf Kliger