Light Night events in Yorkshire - The best light night events of 2024
The best thing about this time of year and the nights drawing in is that it opens up a whole new world of events in terms of light night extravaganzas. Every year these seem to be getting bigger and better and this year is no exception. These family friendly events are a perfect way to discover places after dark. All without the late night attached!
Here is the round up of light night events in Yorkshire coming up in the lead up to Christmas and beyond.
Fountains by Floodlight
The annual Fountains by Floodlight event at Fountains Abbey is taking place every Friday and Saturday from 11 October to 2 November. This after dark experience is not to be missed.
As dusk falls over the Abbey the ruins start to glow. Make your way through the cellarium listening to the choral music playing. Don’t forget your torch so you can chase your shadow through the darkness. The Abbey takes on a completely different feel to the day time and is an exhilarating evening adventure for all.
Light Night Leeds
This year Leeds returns with it’s landmarked 20th edition of this spectacular light night event – the UK’s largest annual arts and light festival. This hugely successful FREE event is on 24th and 25th October. Light installations, dynamic projections, spectacular interactive artworks and captivating performances will transform the streets of Leeds into an incredible illuminated playground. Lighting up some of the cities most famous buildings and landmarks these interactive installations will get visitors engaged like never before.
In celebration of the 20th edition, this year’s event will feature a mesmerising array of new creations by artists from around the world, with some popular artworks from previous years also returning. Among the breathtaking installations that will be part of this year’s free, family-friendly programme will be Norwegian artist Anastasia Isachsen’s stunning Monad, which will be projected onto the water at Leeds Dock. Inspired by the circular nature of life, rebirth and the universe, the piece will be accompanied by a compelling soundscape. Parallels by Architecture Social Club will see multi-coloured laser beams, which pulse and flicker to a mesmerising electronic soundscape near the new Aire Park, outside The Tetley. And MAPP, by Dutch duo AlexP will capture the silhouettes of participants in amongst colourful images and patterns, all projected from an old-fashioned pram.
This year’s array of live street performances will also feature a giant Ghost Caribou, the return of the ever-popular Spark Drummers and a fire-breathing dragon. Other artworks, including a spellbinding piece on The Queens Hotel.
Photo – Art and light installation from last years event (photo credit Leeds Light Night)
NEW! Phoenix: lightshow at York Minister
A brand new light and sound projection show is coming to York Minister this year to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the 1984 fire. On Monday 9 July 1984, a devastating fire destroyed the roof of York Minster’s South Transept and sent shockwaves through York, which reverberated across the world. The story of this fire is not just one of damage caused to one of the world’s most magnificent cathedrals, but also a story of bravery, resilience, and determination to rebuild. Telling the story of that night and its aftermath, PHOENIX will commemorate the bravery, power and ingenuity of those that responded to the fire, celebrating the resilience of York Minster and the people of York through their own words, in the very place where it happened. Visitors will see lightning strike the cathedral, lead pour down from the roof and the iconic Rose Window crack, before the clean-up operation begins and expert restoration leaves York Minster standing as a symbol of hope in the city once more.
PHOENIX is a major new projection mapping and sound installation by award-winning artists Ross Ashton and Karen Monid which will transform the nave of York Minster. The installation is bespoke, having been specially created to bring the cathedral’s unique architecture and history to life. Ashton and Monid also created ‘Northern Lights’ in 2019 and ‘Platinum and Light’ in 2022, two spectacular installations which attracted tens of thousands of people to the cathedral. The events will help raise funds for the continuing restoration of the cathedral’s fabric. York Minster is one of the world’s most magnificent cathedrals, but with the current building dating from the 13th century, it is a fragile masterpiece which needs constant care.
The events will open on Saturday 19 October and run each evening until Saturday 2 November.
Photo credit to York Minister
Whitby Abbey Illuminated
Of all the spooky places to go this Halloween then Whitby Abbey, home of Dracula has to be high on the list. Time Will Tell theatre group will take you on a journey into a nightmare world of Victorian gothic in new creation ‘If these Stones could Talk’. Explore the Abbey in all it’s gothic splendour as the ruins are lit up all aglow.
On from Thursday 24th October to Saturday 2nd November 2024, 6-9pm this is a great family friendly light night event in Yorkshire.
NEW! Northern Lights Leeds
Yorkshire’s biggest new Christmas trail launches this Winter at Temple Newsam, Leeds. From 21st November to the 31st December take a stroll through an enchanted world of illumination, uniquely crafted by world leading lighting designers. Enjoy a truly mesmerising journey around the picturesque landscape of Temple Newsam. The trail is multi-sensory and inclusive – designed for all ages, backgrounds and abilities in mind. The illuminations are the perfect way to enjoy the festive season with the whole family.
Photo credit – Northern Lights Leeds
Let it Glow! at Harlow Carr
This unmissable after dark light spectacle is on this festive season starting on Thursday 21st November through to the 28th of December (Wednesdays to Saturdays). Wander through the grounds on an enchanting magical walk taking in the light displays around the park. All lit up in an array of colour, the gardens come to life. With music playing in the background the trees appear to dance along. Don’t miss out on the ‘field of fire’ on the Main Lawn, the Sun Border gilded selfie frame, cross Thaliana Bridge in a rainbow of lights and enjoy playing with family on the illuminated Logness Monster.
Light up! Wakefield
Following last year’s huge success this FREE event will return to Wakefield. With a series of events lighting up the city centre and beyond from 15th November to 24th November. Light installations will be installed throughout the city along with additional events hosted by local businesses including choirs, fairgrounds, live music, lantern making workshops and more. There will be partner events in Castleford, Ossett, Pontefract and the National Coal Mining Museum too. Visit their website for all the details of these light night event in Yorkshire.
Winter Illuminations at Stockeld Park
This winter, experience the Enchanted Forest come to life into a dazzling twinkling wonderland. This huge light display will leave you dazzled with the effects. The animated installations add to the wonder creating a magical beautiful event. Entry to the illuminations can include the play areas too so get there before dusk to make the most of those too. On from 18th November through to 8th January this is one of the country’s largest and most creative Christmas Light night events in Yorkshire and is renowned for being brilliant.
Winter Woodland at Sewerby Hall
The hugely popular Sewerby Winter Wonderland is returning with a spectacular display of lights, sounds and special effects this year. With a new theme and a new route this will keep everyone guessing. Help the magical Golden Goose, Puss in Boots and his pantomine pals celebrate Christmas whilst making sure that the dastardly Old King Troll and his troll minions don’t spoil the festivities!
Meet the festive characters as you journey through the Winter Woodland. With lots of food and drink on sale this is a full evening’s entertainment for all the family. On from 6th to 22nd December.
Winter Illuminations - Light & Lantern Festival at Yorkshire Wildlife Park
This year wrap up warm and experience the park after dark. Explore the magic of the illuminated enchanted realms as you walk for over 2km along the trails. Bigger and better than ever before, the lights and lanterns cover the walkways and are all hand crafted to tell the story of the different animal kingdoms. Lots of interactive areas for the kids to get involved in too.
The dates haven’t yet been announced but they have said “Get ready to feline Festive!”
Scarborough Lights
The second edition of Scarborough Lights will take place in November and December 2024. Building on the successes and learnings from 2023, this year’s festival will be inclusive, taking place in the pre-Christmas period, but light works won’t necessarily be Christmas-themed.
A variety of free and affordable light shows, installations and community activities will take place throughout Scarborough with indoor and outdoor works and projections.
More information will be available soon.
Beam - Turning on the Town in Harrogate
Brand new for 2024! A two-night spectacular will illuminate the town centre on 15 and 16 March, with stunning light installations and soundscapes creating a trail through Harrogate town centre. Visitors can explore the town’s streets to see the light installations come to life and enjoy some of Harrogate’s great hospitality businesses along the way.
Evenings from dusk til 10pm, the installations will shine a light in a few unexpected places as well as illuminating some of the town’s most iconic landmarks. From thousands of specks of light dancing in the trees of the Valley Gardens and searchlights beaming patterns across the sky, to a serene celebration of our more tranquil spaces, our ten unique illuminations will create a rich and varied spectacle throughout the town.
It’s free to visit, so why not brighten up the last of the winter evenings with a unique celebration of this beautiful town.
Photo credit – Harrogate International Festival
Yorkshire Coast Laser Light Show
New for 2024 the Yorkshire Coast Light Show organised by Yorkshire Bid and Polestar Productions takes place over 7 nights from 26th February to 3rd March 2024.
The idea being to shine a light on iconic locations and landmarks across the Yorkshire Coast, connecting the area together.
The project will see lasers at Whitby Abbey – the home of Dracula, Raven Hall Hotel, Ravenscar – one of the most scenic areas of the Dinosaur coastline, South Bay, Scarborough – the lasers will be beamed from Sea Grown, championing the heritage of the town, The Chalk Tower, Flamborough – England’s oldest surviving lighthouse, The Forum, Bridlington – lasers mounted to the roof, The Promenade, Withernsea – to highlight the fishing industry on the Yorkshire Coast.
The lasers are high powered and on a clear night, not only will people be able to see the shows in their home towns, but people from miles around will be able to see the skies illuminated with lasers too.
Image coming soon
Lister Park Lantern Parade, Bradford
Lister Park Lantern Parade in Bradford is back again this year held on Friday November 1st 2024. The parade starts at 6pm with pre parade performances in front of Cartwright Hall. From 6.30pm the parade will set off from the front of Cartwright Hall finishing with a Fire finale at the bowling green at 7.30pm.
Music from the Peace Artistes, Banda na Rua and Jamba Samba. Cartwright Hall galleries will also be open. There are a one hour long lantern making workshops happening throughout the day in Cartwright Hall on Friday November 1st too.
Photo credit Lister Park Lantern Parade facebook event
On Saturday 23rd November is Barnsley Bright Night Parade in the Glass Works Square. The parade includes community groups and workshop attendees. This event also includes a FREE light art trail of installations all over the town center, connecting Barnsley’s cultural venues together.
Barnsley Bright Nights
Illuminate - Burnby Hall Gardens
Burnby Hall Gardens’ winter illuminations is an unmissable spectacle for all the family!
This year, the Stewarts Trust, who run Burnby Hall Gardens and Museum, are celebrating their Diamond Jubilee. To mark this milestone event, the Gardens will be illuminated for visitors to enjoy them at night for the very first time in the 60-year history. Experience the lakes and trees as you’ve never seen them before, all beautifully illuminated with winter lighting.
From the 29th November to the 21st December
Nostell Fire Garden Nights
Swap fireworks for a night of culture and fire art in the garden at Nostell Priory, Pontefract. Experience an illuminating evening of music, fire, light and art – the rose garden lit by 240 blazing torches and impressive sculptures of delicate seed heads and natural forms. Enjoy this National Trust property by night with a special, atmospheric visit to the house and family activities. The glass house will be transformed with light and silhouettes into an apothecary cabinet. Enjoy a cup of complimentary herbal tea fresh from the Samovar whilst you walk round the house after hours, discovering the story of Sabine Winn and cosy up to play games by the fire. Visit the incredible dolls’ house – it’s a miniature version of Nostell and one of only a handful of surviving 18th-century dolls’ houses.
The café will be open until 9pm if you fancy a warm pasty, hot beverage or a salted caramel and squash scone to top off your night.
The event will run 7th, 8th and 9th November.
Illuminate the Gardens, Sheffield Botanical Gardens
2024 is the seventh year for the hugely successful show Illuminate the Gardens in the heart of Sheffield. The event has had a full revamp and this year will see several changes including lots more interactive features for all to enjoy. This Year’s Theme is Hidden Treasures and this will have lots of key feature
elements as part of the whole event experience, with several more new artist installations on site for 2024. The highlight of the new show design will be a new trail at the lower lawns site plus more free activities for kids and a treasure hunt trail in the gardens site to follow and collect the stamps as you make your way round.
The event will be on from 4.30pm til 9pm for 3 days only – Friday 1st November to Sunday 3rd November. There will be low bang fireworks and light shows on throughout the evening whilst you enjoy the trail and the food stations.
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