Biela noc Bratislava 2025: When Art Lights Up the Night

5 October 2025 Eva Pregerson

Published: 5 October 2025
By Eva Pregerson

What Is Biela noc?

Every autumn, Bratislava glows with creativity during Biela noc (White Night) — a captivating festival of contemporary art, light, and imagination. For one unforgettable weekend, the city transforms into an open-air gallery. Streets, bridges, and buildings come alive with installations, performances, and interactive experiences that invite everyone to take part.

The festival’s main goal is to make art accessible to all. Whether you’re an art lover or a curious visitor, Biela noc encourages you to see familiar places in a completely new way.

When and Where Does It Happen?

Biela noc Bratislava 2025 took place from 3 to 5 October in the heart of the city. Artworks spread across central locations, from the Eurovea promenade and the Old Bridge to historic squares and hidden courtyards.

The weather worked out beautifully this year. Unlike last year’s chilly evenings, the nights were mild and comfortable — perfect for walking and exploring the illuminated streets.

A Festival with History

Biela noc has been part of Slovakia’s cultural calendar for more than a decade. The first Slovak edition began in Košice before expanding to Bratislava. Today, the event is part of the international Nuit Blanche network, which celebrates art, creativity, and community after dark.

This year marked the 11th edition in Bratislava, featuring more than 200 artists from seven countries and over 50 unique installations.

How Are the Artists Chosen?

Each year, a curatorial team selects a mix of Slovak and international artists through open calls and invitations. The lineup includes works that explore light, sound, performance, and technology. Every piece is chosen for its ability to transform public spaces and engage the audience.

Highlights from this year included:

Róbert Mačkay – Under the Line (Eurovea promenade)
Viliam Slaminka & Kobra Viazanková – Kobra (riverside installation)
Dániel Besnyő & Zoltán Czingáli – Urchin (embankment light object)
BN LABEL – Silent Moments (Old Bridge)
LIGHTFORM Collective – Chaos & Harmony (laser performance)

Each installation offered something different — inviting reflection, play, and wonder.

The City Comes Alive

Over the weekend, tens of thousands of people filled the streets. Families, students, and visitors of all ages wandered together through glowing pathways, discovering art in unexpected corners. The city was alive with conversation, laughter, and the quiet hum of excitement.

Saturday night drew especially large crowds, with the energy continuing well into Sunday. Cafés stayed open late, musicians played in the squares, and every turn revealed a new burst of light and creativity.

Why We Love Biela noc

Biela noc is more than an art festival — it’s a celebration of connection. It brings people together to experience creativity in public spaces, reminding us that art can transform the everyday into something extraordinary.

This year’s edition once again showed that when the sun goes down, Bratislava shines brightest through the imagination of its people.