From March 12-15, 2025, Leicester’s city centre transformed into a vibrant gallery of light during the Light Up Leicester festival. This free event attracted both locals and tourists, offering an unforgettable visual and cultural experience.

Dazzling Light Installations

One of the festival’s most captivating pieces was “Evanescent” by the Australian duo Atelier Sisu. This installation featured giant, glowing bubbles, creating an interactive space where visitors could immerse themselves in a dreamlike atmosphere. Their ethereal glow and changing colours mesmerised both children and adults alike.

Another striking work was “The Beacon” by Tom Campbell—a towering beam of light stretching 2km into the sky, symbolising hope and community unity. French art collective Collectif Scale presented two mesmerising installations: “Double Flux” and “Hula Hoop,” blending movement, music, and digital technology for an immersive sensory experience.

Leicester Cathedral in a New Light

Leicester Cathedral became the canvas for a digital projection titled “Cathedral, Culture and Crown”, created by local artists from MBD. This animation told the story of Leicester, blending history and modernity, drawing large crowds who watched the iconic landmark come to life in a stunning visual transformation.

Parades & Community Events

The festival kicked off with the “Radiant Routes” parade, featuring over 300 local schoolchildren, inspired by King Richard III and the city’s rich cultural heritage. Nupur Arts brought a Holi-inspired performance, combining light, dance, and colour, filling Leicester’s streets with energy and vibrancy.

Cycling enthusiasts took part in the “Illuminated Bike Parade,” where riders with light-adorned bicycles created a moving illumination across the city. The festival’s grand finale was an enchanting performance by French group Compagnie des Quidams, featuring giant illuminated horse puppets that paraded through the streets, leaving the audience in awe.

Food & Entertainment

Beyond the stunning visuals, Light Up Leicester 2025 also delivered a rich culinary experience. A night market on Gallowtree Gate allowed visitors to indulge in local delicacies and international street food, while the funfair offered exciting attractions for families and thrill-seekers.

A Festival to Remember

Light Up Leicester 2025 proved once again that the city can seamlessly blend history with innovation, bringing the community together in a celebration of creativity and unity. With its diverse range of installations and events, the festival has become not just a tourist attraction but also a source of pride for Leicester’s residents.

For more details on the festival, visit the official website:
👉 lightupleicester.com