Bristol Light Festival 2025 has delivered a record-breaking boost to the city’s economy, with visitor spending surging to £9.4m – an increase of 30% on last year. Over 200,000 people visited the city between Friday 31st January and Sunday 9th February, generating an overall economic impact of more than £11m.

With an average visitor spend of £46.69, almost double 2024’s figure of £26.20, the festival has proven itself as a major driver of footfall and consumer spending during the traditionally quieter winter months. Shopping expenditure saw a remarkable 118% increase, while spending on food and drink also saw significant growth.

More than 50% of visitors surveyed said they would not have dined out or shopped in Bristol without the festival, demonstrating its vital role in supporting local businesses. Accommodation spend also rose, with over £1m generated by overnight visitors, bringing total direct spending in the city to £10.4m.

Now in its fifth year, Bristol Light Festival continues to transform the city centre, offering immersive, interactive and vibrant light installations. This year’s highlights included the world premiere celebration of Bristol’s Drum & Bass scene, Anthems Volume One, A brand new artwork by local artists, Air Giants, The Whilers, and the return of the fan-favourite Swing Song.

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Vicky Lee, Director of Bristol City Centre BID, said:

“Bristol Light Festival has firmly established itself as a powerful economic driver for the city. Visitors are spending more time here, supporting local businesses and experiencing everything Bristol has to offer. The surge in visitor spending, longer dwell times and increase in overnight stays all highlight the festival’s immense value. It’s fantastic to see this event providing such a crucial boost at a time when businesses need it most.”

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Steve Bluff, Director of Redcliffe & Temple BID, added:

“This festival demonstrates how cultural events can directly benefit our local economy, encouraging people to explore different areas of the city and increasing trade for businesses. The continued growth in visitor spend proves just how valuable events like this are for Bristol’s economic resilience.”

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Katherine Jewkes, Creative Director of Bristol Light Festival, commented:

“This year’s festival has been hugely successful in once again bringing people together to experience art in an accessible and engaging way. Seeing the city come alive at night, filled with colour, light and joy, is what makes this event so unique. The response from visitors has been overwhelmingly positive and it’s incredibly rewarding to know that the festival not only brightens the winter months but also generates meaningful economic benefits for Bristol’s businesses. Knowing that our work both lifts spirits and drives real impact for the local economy makes it even more special.”

Information about the 2026 edition of the festival will be announced soon…