Last weekend, I attended the LUX Helsinki 2026 festival, which attracted large crowds despite the cold weather. Dressing appropriately helped, but my fingers did get really cold while taking the photos. Five of the twenty installations were situated near Hietalahti Market Hall.
The event featured colorful light displays, particularly at the eerily beautiful Old Church Park, also known as the “Plague Park” due to its historical significance. The Blue light and snow made the place look a bit eerie. It is also known as the “Plague Park” (Ruttopuisto), as victims of the plague in 1710 were buried alongside the church. The gravestones in the Old Church Park remind of the history of cemeteries in this part of town. The park is home to the second oldest church in Helsinki and remains a popular destination within the city center, blending art and history.
Participating in Johns Cellpic Sunday
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 
What a great way to get people out in the winter.
It sure is, something fun for the dark winter nights
Beautiful Ritva! That is a great way to get people out in winter.
This looks like a wonderful celebration of the season, Ritva! It might even drag me outdoors on a cold day. (Easy for me to say as I flee south to Arizona every winter.) >grin<