St. Petersburg's Festival of Lights Brightens Up the Darkness
As darkness descended on St. Petersburg this weekend, the city’s historic buildings lit up in a spectacular way for the fourth annual Festival of Lights.
With the help of 3D mapping technology, the traditional architecture of Russia's northern capital was transformed into a menagerie of light, music and optical illusions. This year, the event’s theme was “Magic Garden.”
Here's a look at the sights from this year’s show:
With the help of 3D mapping technology, the traditional architecture of Russia's northern capital was transformed into a menagerie of light, music and optical illusions. This year, the event’s theme was “Magic Garden.”
Here's a look at the sights from this year’s show:

The facade of the General Staff Building on Palace Square “filled with water,” froze into ice crystals and transformed into the Northern Lights.
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The classical architecture of Russia's northern capital formed a perfect contrast to the modern lighting displays.
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Residents and visitors of the city alike had the opportunity to gaze upon giant digital flowers, trees and fantastic creatures.
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Attendees embarked on a virtual "quest" to search for artifacts that could help to find the lost "source of light."
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With innovative touches like surround sound and augmented reality, the festival was like a giant open theater.
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The festival has been held in St. Petersburg every year since 2016.
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