The GLOW light festival has been awarded the prestigious Grand Prix at the National Event Awards. The announcement was made at the National Events Congress in Zandvoort.
The Grand Prix is typically awarded every two years to an established event that has become a unique phenomenon. The award recognises events that have achieved significant scale and influence, permanently shaping the Dutch event landscape. By winning this prize, GLOW joins an elite group of previous winners, including the Rotterdam International Film Festival and the Pinkpop music festival.
Deciding factors
Since its first edition, GLOW has evolved into a leading international light art festival. Welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, the event has established Eindhoven’s global reputation for light, technology, and design. The board also noted the festival’s influence on the sector, particularly its role in demonstrating how public events can drive urban development and economic growth. While the festival is deeply rooted in the city, it has expanded its reach. Since 2023, GLOW has also included regional festivals in Helmond, Best, Oirschot, Veldhoven, and Lieshout.
Philip Ross, the director of GLOW, described the award as a massive honour. He stated that the prize recognises everyone who has contributed over the years, from artists and partners to volunteers and visitors. He added that the award confirms the festival’s status as a major national attraction. During the ceremony, former directors Ronald Ramakers and Eric Boselie also took to the stage to receive the award in recognition of their roles in the festival’s growth.
The Grand Prix is awarded by the board of the National Event Awards Foundation. It alternates annually with a lifetime achievement award and is reserved for events of exceptional significance to the Netherlands.
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