Fjord Oslo's Outdoor Light Art Festival Will Illuminate Norway Again

Many international festivals have found it impossible to proceed in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic. Social distancing and mass interaction simply don’t work in this climate. Yet one art event is set to return later this year in Oslo, and its unique concept makes it perfect for the times we live in.

The cultural calendar has been decimated by global events this year. A summer without music has been difficult, and empty schedules have left many of us with little to look forward to.

A young boy is mesmerised by Luke Jerram’s Gaia, a touring artwork

Thankfully, some of the more creative arts events that rely on public spaces have been able to bring some colour back. We’re currently enjoying the London Mural Festival as it continues to highlight the best street art around and now another city-wide event has been announced.

Fjord Oslo debuted in 2019 with the objective of delivering a collective art experience. The free event was held outdoors and proved to be such a massive success that a return was inevitable. The three-day event this year will be held on November 6-9 and promises to bring the most exciting light installations to Oslo’s waterfront.

Le Bal des Luminéoles, by Christophe Martine, spreads its colours across the Oslo night sky

Using techniques such as projection mapping and colour movement, the selected works all explore the relationship between humanity and the natural world. Norway’s capital city is the ideal backdrop, with the 2019 edition showcasing the booming Harbour Promenade area as well as some of the more traditional architecture and open spaces along the waterfront.

Things to do in Oslo

If you’re looking to visit this event or are planning a trip to Oslo in the coming months, Culture Trip has picked out the best places to stay and things to do in the area.

The Oslo City Walk (the City of Contrasts) takes place every Monday throughout the year, and is the best way to see the city. The modern front that many experience on their first visit can sometimes hide the historical heart of Oslo, so this tour gives you a chance to see it all in one go.

Downtown Oslo boasts an array of museums, restaurants, bars and boutique hotels

Another type of walking tour is the Taste of Oslo experience. As the title suggests, this guided walking tour will take you around the city and give you a chance to sample Norway’s best dishes and cuisine.

Finally, if you find yourself in Norway on an extended trip, then the picturesque train journey from Oslo to Bergen is a must. This unique experience includes a cruise through the fantastic fjords and a train journey that takes you from sea level to the peaks of nearby mountains.

Places to Stay in Oslo

Oslo, like many Nordic cities, is bursting with unique hotels and boutique residencies.

Comfort Hotel Grand Central

Boutique Hotel

If you have zero time to waste, but want to explore as much of the city of Oslo as possible, Comfort Hotel Grand Central is strategically placed in Oslo Sentralstasjon. In three minutes, you can take the train to the airport. In one minute, you can be in Karl Johans gate and explore the city’s highlights. And when you just want to relax, the hotel’s New York-style modern design will help you lounge like the cosmopolitan traveller you are.

Oslo Guldsmeden

Boutique Hotel

Right next to the buzzing Aker Brygge lies Oslo Guldsmeden, a welcoming boutique hotel with a distinct Nordic interior design style that really knows how to do hygge. Whether you’re having a drink at the bar, relaxing with a candlelit bath or cosying up in your room, Guldsmeden’s warm atmosphere will make you feel welcome in this home-away-from-home establishment.

The Thief

Hotel

Their mission over at the Thief is to “steal you away from everyday life” – and they’re definitely succeeding at that. This boutique hotel is located in Tjuvholmen, Downtown Oslo, just a breath away from the fabulous Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art. The style is unassuming timelessness meets contemporary art, and traditional Norwegian design meets spectacular views of the city. They also have a spa you won’t want to miss out on.

About the author

Cassam Looch

Editorial Manager

Cassam Looch has been working within travel for more than a decade. An expert on film locations and set jetting destinations, Cassam is also a keen advocate of the many unique things to do in his home city of London. With more than 50 countries visited (so far), Cassam also has a great take on the rest of the world.