GLOW 2026: 6x starting points

The week that brings out the amateur photographer in everyone is just around the corner. From 7 through 14 November, GLOW puts Eindhoven in the spotlight. New year, new route. Of course, you can start at point 1 like you’re supposed to, but why would you? Starting somewhere else has its perks. We’ve lined up six possible starting points for you!

Philips Stadion (route point 7)

This year, Philips Stadion (home to PSV) is the backdrop for a spectacular drone light show, the ideal place to kick off your GLOW adventure. Your ticket comes with a fixed time slot, so it makes sense to start your GLOW evening here: no rushing through the rest of the route, and no waiting around until it’s your turn. A ticket costs € 2, and you can buy it here. Show times are 18:30, 19:15, 20:00, and 20:45, and the show lasts fifteen minutes. Now, about the show itself: The Breathing Collective (#7 on the route) is about finding each other and letting go again. With soft humming, bright flashes, and points of light that come together as one, the drones hold your attention!

De Heuvel (route point 21)

Want to grab a bite first? You’ll find plenty of small restaurants on Markt. Then roll straight into Heuvel with a full stomach for Rings of Resonance (#21 on the route). This light artwork by students from Fontys (a university of applied sciences) is an interactive installation with three illuminated rings around a sphere that constantly changes color. Press the buttons and find out what happens to the glowing rings.

Stadhuisplein (route point 18)

Want to warm up with hot chocolate first? Then Stadhuisplein is a great start to your GLOW walk. Here you’ll find Camp GLOW, the festival’s official base: warm up by the fireplace with a hot chocolate topped with whipped cream, or grab a bite. On the same square, you’ll find the work of the Turkish studio Nohlab: In-Line V360 (#18 on the route). Step inside the spatial illusion and let the lines, light, and sound stimulate your senses. Then walk around it too: from the outside, it’s at least as impressive as from the inside!

Keizersgracht (route point 16)

Start your GLOW walk off right with a bite and a drink in the Bergen area. Then walk to Keizersgracht for a spectacular first stop: the light artwork Triple Point at Hooghuis (#16 on the route). Artist Antoine Goldschmidt wraps the entire facade in a curtain of mist, so the angular building suddenly seems to move and breathe.

Frederika van Pruisenweg (route point 11)

Would you rather start away from the crowds? Then Rooted – Democracy of Trees (#11 on the route) is your starting point. In Vonderkwartier, a majestic tree stands as a symbol of connection with the neighborhood and the memories and stories of its residents. The drawings by the residents are literally in the spotlight here. On Saturday 7 November, the Vonderkoor (a choir from the neighborhood) sings by the tree to celebrate the opening.

Rabobank (route point 1A)

We totally understand if you prefer to walk the route as it was meant to be walked. And this year, that pays off, because the first light artwork on the route shoots through the city center from its starting point at Rabobank. Pass it On shows football players passing a glowing ball to each other. Follow it past seven spots until it lands at Philips Stadion. Rabobank is behind the station, so this starting point is also very handy if you’re coming by public transportation.