The annual Rendez-vous Bundesplatz light and sound show in Bern concluded its 15th edition, drawing an estimated 465,000 visitors. The event, titled "Voyage," transformed the Federal Palace facade into a canvas for global landmarks, despite facing periods of challenging weather.
Key Takeaways
- Rendez-vous Bundesplatz 2023 attracted 465,000 visitors.
- The show, named "Voyage," depicted global landmarks.
- Swiss-Tibetan activists held a protest light show concerning content exclusion.
- The next event is scheduled for October to November 2026.
"Voyage" Takes Spectators on a Global Journey
This year's Rendez-vous Bundesplatz, running from October 18 to November 22, presented a visually stunning journey around the world. The show, lasting approximately 30 minutes, was projected onto the facade of the Federal Palace.
For the first time, the light projections were accompanied by live music, enhancing the immersive experience for the audience. The spectacle was performed three times each evening, allowing many people to witness the display.
Visitor Numbers
- 2023: 465,000 visitors for "Voyage"
- 2022: Nearly 621,000 visitors for "Volare"
Spectators saw iconic structures such as the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the ancient pyramids of Egypt, and India's Taj Mahal come to life on the historic building. The theme "Voyage," meaning 'travel' in German, aimed to transport the audience to different corners of the globe.
Controversy Surrounds Content Exclusion
While the main show captivated many, a separate event occurred on Saturday evening. Swiss-Tibetan activists organized their own light show and protest. They projected Tibetan flags onto a nearby building.
The activists highlighted what they called the suppression of Tibet by China. They specifically criticized the decision by parliamentary services to remove images related to Tibet from the original "Voyage" concept.
"This is self-censorship and a capitulation to political pressure from China," stated the Association of Tibetan Youth in Europe (VTJE).
Background on the Incident
The controversy arose after the initial plans for "Voyage" reportedly included imagery representing Tibet. However, these elements were later excluded from the final presentation of the show at the Federal Palace.
The group used their independent light projection to draw attention to their concerns. Their demonstration aimed to raise awareness about the political situation in Tibet and the broader implications of such content decisions.
Impact on Attendance and Future Plans
The organizers reported that around 465,000 people attended the 15th edition of Rendez-vous Bundesplatz. This figure indicates a strong interest in the event, though it represents a decrease compared to the previous year.
In 2022, the show, titled "Volare," attracted almost 621,000 visitors. The current year's lower attendance might be partly attributed to the "unfavorable weather conditions" mentioned by the organizers.
Preparation for the Next Spectacle
The Federal Palace light show has become a cherished annual tradition in Bern. It draws both local residents and tourists to the Bundesplatz.
The next iteration of this popular light spectacle is already scheduled. It will take place from October 17 to November 21, 2026. This early announcement allows for extensive planning and anticipation for future audiences.
- The show runs for approximately 30 minutes.
- It features global landmarks on the Federal Palace facade.
- Live music was a new addition this year.
- The event is a significant cultural highlight for Bern.
The Rendez-vous Bundesplatz continues to be a major attraction, transforming the heart of Bern into a vibrant display of light and sound. The blend of art and public engagement remains a key feature of the annual event.