All information is for the 2025 festival.
What is Bristol Light Festival?
Bristol Light Festival is a 10-day celebration featuring captivating, light-based artworks that will illuminate Bristol’s city centre across January and February 2025. Known for transforming the city into a magical, outdoor gallery, the festival attracts thousands of visitors each year to experience an unforgettable mix of art and light.
When will Bristol Light Festival 2025 take place?
The festival will run each evening from Friday, 31st January to Sunday, 9th February 2025, between 5pm and 10pm.
Do I need tickets for Bristol Light Festival?
No tickets or booking are required to attend. This is a 100% free event open to everyone!
Where will Bristol Light Festival take place?
The festival takes place at multiple locations throughout Bristol’s city centre. A full map of locations will be released closer to the event, showcasing popular areas around the city where installations will be displayed.
What time will the artworks be switched on?
All artworks will be illuminated from 5pm to 10pm each day. For the best experience, we recommend viewing installations after dark.
When is the best time to visit with children?
Weeknights before 7pm are generally quieter and more family-friendly, making them ideal for a relaxed experience with children.
Where can I find more information about the artworks at the festival?
Each installation will feature large, on-site signage with information about the artwork and its creator, ensuring visitors can enjoy and learn about each piece. All information can also be found here.
Can I bring my dog?
Absolutely! Dogs are welcome at all outdoor festival locations. We love seeing furry friends enjoying the installations, but please keep them on a lead and ensure they’re comfortable in larger crowds.
Will there be food and drink at the festival?
Yes! Bristol’s city centre offers a variety of cafes, bars and restaurants near the installations, providing plenty of options for you to explore and enjoy during your visit.
Is the event accessible?
We’ve worked hard to make Bristol Light Festival accessible to all. An Accessibility Guide, which will include information on each artwork and location, will be available closer to the festival. The city centre location offers hard-standing routes, dropped curbs and accessible paths, allowing everyone to navigate the installations with ease.
How long will it take to see all of the artworks?
The festival is best enjoyed at a gentle pace, and we would suggest spending about 20 minutes at each installation. With 10 days to explore, you can enjoy the festival at your own pace. Walking the entire festival in one day takes around 3 hours, depending on your walking speed and time spent at each installation. Please note there may be queues at busier times (Thursday – Sunday).
Who can I speak to at the festival if I need help?
Our friendly security, stewarding and volunteer teams will be on-site and easily identifiable at each location to provide assistance if you need it.
How can I get to the festival?
The festival is conveniently accessible by public transport, with bus and train routes stopping close to the city centre. You can view our detailed travel guide here.
Is there parking at the event?
While there is no dedicated festival parking, multiple city centre car parks are open during the event, all within walking distance of the installations. Cabot Circus car park offers evening parking for £3 if you arrive after 5pm. Bristol’s Clean Air Zone (CAZ) is also in effect, so please check if your vehicle is subject to charges here.
How is Bristol Light Festival funded?
Bristol Light Festival is funded by Bristol City Centre Business Improvement District (BID), Redcliffe & Temple BID, Broadmead BID and supporters such as Cabot Circus and Visit Bristol, Visit West’s consumer channel for Bristol. This festival would not be possible without these organisations’ commitment to celebrating Bristol’s vibrant arts and culture scene. Through their support, we’re able to keep the festival free for everyone to enjoy, while also showcasing the city centre as a welcoming space for community connection and cultural exploration.
Is Bristol Light Festival sustainable?
We’re committed to reducing the environmental impact of the festival. By encouraging sustainable travel, reducing waste and using energy-efficient LED lighting, we aim to keep our festival green. We’ve also taken the Vision 2025 Pledge to significantly reduce the festival’s climate impact by 2025. Learn more about our efforts here.
Are there any must-see highlights at the Bristol Light Festival?
Yes! Each year, the Bristol Light Festival features signature installations from internationally renowned artists alongside local creators’ works. Look out for updates on this year’s highlights, which will include both immersive displays and interactive pieces. Stay tuned to our website and social media channels for more information.
Can I take photos or videos of the artworks?
Definitely! We encourage you to capture and share your experience with friends and family. Use the hashtag #BristolLightFestival to join our online community. Please remember to respect other visitors’ enjoyment and avoid flash photography, as it can impact the experience for others.