International collaboration with GLOW continues in Puebla

What began as a special introduction during GLOW Eindhoven last November has developed into an international continuation in Mexico this year. The collective Traffic Light de Mexico brought the Mexican tradition of Día de los Muertos to the Netherlands in autumn 2025, featuring a colourful three-metre-high skull installation in Eindhoven and a video projection in Veldhoven. This cultural exchange laid the foundation for a new step: a dedicated GLOW edition in Puebla.

Last weekend, GLOW Mexico opened in Puebla, organised by Traffic Light de Mexico under the supervision of GLOW Eindhoven. In this historic city, rich in cultural heritage and UNESCO sites, the light festival takes on its own character, featuring a route of more than 20 light artworks by both local creators and international artists, including participants from previous GLOW editions.

Interest in the festival is strong. During its first weekend, GLOW Mexico attracted 297,111 visitors. On Saturday 11 April, 158,400 visitors were recorded, including 18,628 at the opening ceremony. On Sunday 12 April, a further 138,711 visitors attended. This high turnout underlines the appeal of an event where art, technology and public space come together.

GLOW Mexico contributes to positioning Puebla as a destination for cultural and technological tourism. The initiative forms part of a broader strategy by the state government, led by Governor Alejandro Armenta Mier, to strengthen tourism, culture and innovation. According to Michelle Talavera Herrera, Executive Director of Convenciones y Parques, the visitor numbers demonstrate public confidence in events that combine art and technology, while also stimulating the local economy.

Visitors have responded enthusiastically. “The route is attractive and well organised, with many impressive installations,” said one visitor. Another highlighted the welcoming atmosphere: “It is a unique, family-friendly event that is definitely worth visiting.”

As in Eindhoven, the involvement of the city itself is central in Puebla. Students, children, residents and local artists actively contribute to the light artworks along the route. This shared approach connects two cities that are geographically distant but share the same ambition: bringing people together through light art.

Bart van Bokhoven, curator of GLOW, is closely involved in the organisation of GLOW Mexico and is present in Puebla throughout the week.

“GLOW Mexico shows that light art can reach people worldwide and connect cities. The strong attendance and the presence of international and governmental representatives, such as the Dutch Ambassador, the Minister of Culture and the Governor, underline the value and relevance of this event.

The mission of GLOW Mexico goes beyond light art alone: the festival focuses on creating connection within the city itself, through collaboration with educational institutions, local artists, universities and cultural partners such as dance schools.

What makes this edition special is its strong grounding in local stories, an approach we also know from GLOW Eindhoven. From drawings by children in an orphanage translated into light installations to works such as ‘Sediments’, which brings the story of the world-renowned library of Puebla to life.”

With GLOW Mexico, GLOW demonstrates how light art transcends borders and connects people, creators and cities around the world.