World’s largest Light Art Run transforms Copenhagen into moving artwork

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The world’s largest Light Art Run just illuminated the Copenhagen Light Festival, turning the city into a glittering spectacle.

More than 1,300 runners, wrapped in shimmering light chains, became a living, moving artwork as they jogged their way through 16 installations in Copenhagen’s historic harbour. The main route spanned 7 km, while a special 3 km course welcomed families with children.

At Nyhavn, the historic 17th-century Danish waterfront, the first wave of runners dashed past the colourful townhouses, and as they crossed the finish line, cheers erupted into the cold night air.

“The fact that they’re moving light sources gives another twist to it,” said organiser Jesper Kongshaug.

“What we have been doing is, of course, precision, and now all these positions become relative to the people moving. So it’s a really good dimension to everything that is added today. And people are happy. I couldn’t hear anything else but people feeling so happy and safe.”

For the runners, the experience was unforgettable: “It was great, man. With everybody running with all their lights, it was very beautiful. And it was a new way to see our city. Great. I’ll do it again next year, definitely” said 60-year-old participant Søren Frost.

“It was great. I just feel happy. Running with 1,200 people and everybody’s smiling. And the people who are not running are smiling too. So I really think this contributes to happiness in Copenhagen, my city. I love it,” expressed another runner, Vanessa Vega Saenz.

The Light Run is just one of many dazzling events at the Copenhagen Light Festival, which features over 50 light installations around the Danish capital- more than any other festival of its kind in Europe.

In total, around 400,000 people visit the Copenhagen Light Festival each year , making it one of Denmark’s largest free events.

The festival ends on 23 February, but the Light Run and all events return every year in February.