Napa Lighted Art Festival 2026 Archer Hotel Napa’s Guide to downtown’s winter glow

The Napa Lighted Art Festival is one of Napa Valley’s most beloved winter events, drawing visitors for its illuminated sculptures, projection art and immersive nighttime installations. If you're planning a winter getaway, looking for things to do in Napa in January or February or searching for where to stay near the Napa Lighted Art Festival, Archer Hotel Napa puts you in the heart of it all.

Lighted Sculptures + Illuminated Art Installations

Look out for 15 illuminated art installations placed throughout the walkable downtown corridor— all part of the 2026 Napa Lighted Art Festival and created by global light artists. Expect inventive forms, glowing shapes, playful reflections and pieces that come alive when night falls. View Napa Lighted Art Festival Map.

Projection Art on Downtown Napa Landmarks

Always one of Archer’s favorite finds, Napa’s Lighted Art Festival transforms weekend evenings in downtown Napa into a quite-well-lit art walk after dark.

Nine days each year, this free public festival incorporates downtown Napa’s iconic architecture as the backdrop for original artwork installations created by both local and international artists.

Storytime With Napa Bookmine

A sweet, family-friendly evening moment. Bring the kids (or anyone who loves a good tale).
February 7 | 5–6 PM  | CIA at Copia

Oxbow Gnome Hunt

Set out on a gnome hunt, collecting stamps from all 12 giant Roaming Gnomes. Music, drinks, giveaways and whimsical stories about each gnome’s travels.
February 7 | 6–8 PM | Oxbow District  | Pick up passports at the Napa Yard

Archer Hotel Napa is the closest hotel to many of the Lighted Art Festival installations, set on First Street just steps from the city’s illuminated routes. With downtown’s best dining, shopping and promenades right outside, the hotel becomes a walkable hub for all things bright and brilliant. Bonus? Locals can save up to 15% with our state rate, making a winter escape feel that much sweeter.

Here’s your Archer game plan:

1. Check in to the festive spirit. Enjoy a complimentary arrival pour, plus locally crafted caramels and FIJI water in your room. Playful slippers and five-star bedding await your return.
2. Step out and explore. With the festival right outside the lobby, it takes approximately six seconds to be “in it.” Wander the illuminated installations at your own pace.
3. Cap the night Archer-style. Head up to Sky & Vine, the hotel’s rooftop bar, for a nightcap (must try: Café Espresso Martini) as downtown Napa glows below

When is the 2026 Napa Lighted Art Festival?

January 17 – February 15, 2026. Installations are illuminated nightly: Sunday–Thursday 6–9 PM and Friday–Saturday 6–10 PM.

Where can I see the installations?

Throughout downtown Napa — all easily walkable from Archer Hotel Napa on First Street.

Is the Napa Lighted Art Festival family-friendly?

Absolutely. The walkable outdoor setting, creative displays, and community events make it a great outing for all ages.

What are the best places to stay for the Napa Lighted Art Festival?

Travelers often look for hotels within walking distance of the installations. Archer Hotel Napa is located on First Street, putting guests steps from the illuminated art, projection shows, and festival events. To make your stay even swetter, locals can save up to 15% with our state rate.

What’s the cost?

Everything is free: the art, the stroll, the events, the glow.

Why visit Napa in the winter months?

Winter is one of Napa’s best-kept secrets. Nearly 60 cozy tasting rooms await, along with seasonal menus, fewer crowds and experiences you won’t find any other time of year. January and February bring Restaurant Month, truffle season, and the return of Cabernet Season — when cab lovers can lean into hearty pairings and fireside tastings. Out in the valley, bright mustard blooms paint the vineyards and playful lambs graze between the rows. It’s a wonderfully relaxed, deliciously scenic time to explore.

Is downtown Napa walkable at night during the festival?

Yes. Downtown Napa is compact, well-lit, and easy to navigate on foot — and the Lighted Art Festival makes evening strolls especially inviting with glowing installations throughout the core area.

Can you see the Lighted Art Festival without a car?

Absolutely. The festival is designed to be walkable, with installations concentrated in the downtown corridor. If you’re staying at Archer Hotel Napa, you can step outside and be immersed in the artwork within moments.