Nottingham is preparing to illuminate its streets once again as the much-loved Light Night festival announces its return for an impressive 18th consecutive year. Scheduled for Friday, February 6th, and Saturday, February 7th, 2025, this entirely free, family-friendly celebration invites residents and visitors to rediscover the city's iconic landmarks and secret corners after dark.
A City Transformed by Light and Art
Over the two magical evenings, the city centre will be transformed by more than 30 interactive light installations, captivating performances, and engaging activities. This year's artistic programme thoughtfully explores the resonant theme of 'home', with many newly commissioned works reflecting on what this concept means to Nottingham's diverse local communities.
Planning Your Illuminated Adventure
Attendees are encouraged to plan their visit using the official event maps available online. Printed guides can also be collected from the convenient Tourism Centre located on Smithy Row. For a personalised experience, the free 'It’s in Nottingham' mobile app is an excellent tool to help visitors design their own bespoke itineraries and navigate the festival with ease.
Highlights and Must-See Attractions
The festival programme is packed with unique experiences. At Sneinton Market, the 'Electric Avenues' zone promises an immersive blend of shadow play, dynamic projections, and live music. Outside the historic St Mary’s Church, the 'Obelisk of Connectivity' stands as a stunning light sculpture, drawing inspiration from Nottingham's rich lace-making heritage.
Families will be delighted by 'Marina', a magnificent two-metre-tall octopus lantern stationed in Trinity Square, which the audience can interact with and puppeteer. Nottingham Castle will host the fascinating 'LIMB' installation, a responsive light sculpture that changes its glow and patterns in reaction to the movement of visitors around it.
Returning Favourites and New Showcases
The popular 'Light It Up Duckie' treasure hunt makes a welcome return, with over 100 giant, glow-in-the-dark ducks hidden in the windows of local shops for participants to find. Adding to the creative energy, Nottingham College will host a vibrant showcase featuring innovative light installations and short films produced by its talented students.
Community and Economic Impact
Council Leader Neghat Khan emphasised the dual value of the event, stating it brilliantly brings communities together in celebration while providing a significant boost to the local evening economy. She highlighted how such cultural initiatives are vital for city vibrancy.
Easy and Affordable Travel
Getting to and around the festival is made simple and affordable. A £3 single bus fare cap will be in operation across the city, with discounted group tickets also available for both tram and bus services, ensuring the event is accessible to all.
Produced through a partnership between Nottingham City Council and It’s in Nottingham, the Light Night festival remains a proudly free and open celebration, designed for everyone to enjoy. It stands as a testament to the city's commitment to accessible public art and community spirit.
