Birmingham Light Festival 2026 Brightens the City with Free Spectacular Displays
The Birmingham Light Festival has made a dazzling return for its second consecutive year, infusing the heart of the city with vibrant light, dynamic colour, and captivating music. This entirely free event launched on February 12 and will continue to enchant visitors until Sunday, February 15, 2026, offering an extraordinary open-air gallery of illuminated artworks and innovative installations.
A Festival Launch Packed with Performance and Flair
The festival commenced with a powerful opening ceremony featuring performances by FORGED, the evocative spoken-word artistry of Amerah Saleh, and the progressive metal sounds of local band Insurgent. These acts were dramatically set against the backdrop of a giant flaming organ, creating a memorable start to the festivities.
Key Installations and Artistic Highlights to Explore
Attendees can discover a wide array of light-based artworks spread across multiple iconic locations. Notable highlights include:
- The Heartbeat of Brindleyplace located in Oozells Square.
- Firefly Fields illuminating St Paul's Square.
- A giant, glittering discoball positioned along the city's canals.
- A new legacy piece by artist Richard O’Gorman titled Where the Trees Begin, situated in Edgbaston Village.
In celebration of Valentine's weekend, the festival also features romantic neon hearts lighting up Lower Temple Street as part of the 'My Heart Belongs In Birmingham' display, alongside a huge glittering heart installation at the Mailbox.
Accessibility and Event Details
The festival is completely free to attend, with artworks and installations accessible at key sites including Bullring, St Paul's Square, the Mailbox, Brindleyplace, and extending out to Edgbaston Village. This provides a perfect opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy a unique cultural experience without cost.
As the event coincides with the half-term period, it offers a fantastic free activity for families and individuals looking to explore the city's creative offerings. The Birmingham Light Festival 2026 continues to build on its success, bringing community together through art and light in the urban landscape.
