The Bristol Light Festival is a stunning annual event that transforms the city into a glowing wonderland of light-based artworks. This year, the festival will take place from January 31 to February 9, 2025, offering an incredible opportunity to experience the city's vibrant art scene while enjoying the winter atmosphere.
What is the Bristol Light Festival?
It is a captivating public event where the city is illuminated with awe-inspiring light installations created by artists from all around the world. These installations range from large-scale projections to intricate, interactive sculptures, each one offering something unique. The event provides a brilliant opportunity for locals and visitors alike to explore the city in a new light – literally! The festival invites everyone to experience art in unexpected places, with installations scattered across streets, squares, and landmarks throughout the city.
How much does it cost to attend the Bristol Light Festival?
The best part about the Bristol Light Festival is that it’s completely free to attend! The event is designed to be accessible to everyone, with no tickets required. Visitors can wander around the city centre at their leisure and enjoy the dazzling displays without any entrance fees. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a winter evening in Bristol.
What installations will be at the Bristol Light Festival 2025?
In 2025, visitors can expect a wide range of stunning installations that showcase the creativity and innovation of the artists involved. Some of the featured installations this year will include:
Parallels by Architecture Social Club
Step into a mesmerising world where lasers and mirrors transform moving footage into ethereal abstractions of light. Inspired by natural phenomena, Parallels creates a transcendent fusion of light and sound, engaging the senses and leaving visitors spellbound.
The European Premiere of Tetra by Ottomata
Be among the first to witness the European debut of Tetra, a remarkable installation by Ottomata.
Our Beating Heart by Studio Vertigo
Celebrate togetherness with Our Beating Heart, a giant disco ball made from over 11,000 mirrored tiles. This stunning installation symbolises love and unity, scattering dazzling light across the streets and buildings, and enveloping festival-goers in a joyous, festive glow.
Swing Song by Bristol Light Festival
A beloved favourite returns with an exciting new twist for 2025! Swing Song offers more immersive musical fun and nostalgia with an updated set of swings. Each swing controls a unique element of sound—percussion, melody, or bassline—paired with a dynamic light show for an extraordinary multi-sensory experience.
C-Scales by Bruce Munro Studio
Originally crafted for Sydney Harbour, C-Scales honours Bristol’s maritime heritage while exploring the interplay between light and water. Composed of over 1,800 CDs and DVDs, the installation creates a dazzling sea of light, reflecting and refracting in captivating patterns as it paints the surroundings with shimmering hues.
Ramandu’s Table by Bruce Munro Studio
Drawing inspiration from Don Featherstone’s iconic pink flamingos and CS Lewis’s literature, Ramandu’s Table illuminates the flamboyance of nature. This vibrant flock radiates a spectrum of shifting colours, inviting audiences to marvel at its playful beauty.
Somnius by Illumaphonium
After a standout debut in 2023, Illumaphonium returns with Somnius, a cosmic fusion of light and sound. Responding to every movement of its audience, this interactive installation intensifies as crowds grow, offering an unforgettable immersive experience where participants shape the artwork’s light and soundscape.
The Whilers by Air Giants
Making their world premiere at the festival, The Whilers are enchanting, otherworldly creatures that connect with visitors through non-verbal sounds and gestures. These extraordinary beings create a heartwarming and immersive experience, exploring themes of connection and companionship during their brief stay in Bristol.
Where is the Bristol Light Festival located?
The Bristol Light Festival takes place across various locations in the city centre, from the iconic Bristol Harbourside to Queen Square. Some installations will also be found in Castle Park and College Green, with the city’s historic buildings and public spaces providing a stunning backdrop for these luminous works of art.
Immerse yourself in the festival’s magic with their exciting fringe event programme, offering unique ways to experience the dazzling installations. You can take your festival journey to the next level with an official guided tour, where expert guides share fascinating insights into the artworks and the talented artists behind them.
For photography enthusiasts, join the photography walks and master the art of capturing the stunning light displays like a professional, creating memories you’ll treasure forever.
AirFreedom Accommodation for Festival Guests
If you’re planning to visit Bristol for the Light Festival, AirFreedom’s serviced apartment offers the perfect accommodation for guests looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay. Located in central Bristol, Marsh House provides a modern, fully equipped stay that is just a short walk from the main festival locations. Whether you're visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, we offer the flexibility, privacy, and comfort of home while being close to all the excitement of the festival.
The Bristol Light Festival 2025 is an unmissable event that promises to light up your winter with awe-inspiring installations and an immersive art experience. Free to attend and set against the backdrop of one of the UK’s most creative cities, it’s the perfect way to spend an evening in January or February. Book your stay with AirFreedom for a comfortable and convenient experience, and be part of the magic in Bristol this winter!
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