Bristol Light Festival 2023: Map and everything you need to know

Starting today (February 3) and running to February 12, Bristol Light Festival 2023 promises ten days of spectacular light installations that create a trail through the city centre.

From 5pm - 10pm, 11 artworks from internationally acclaimed artists and the best of South West talent will come to life in different locations across the city, most of which have never been seen in Bristol, including some brand-new commissions.

Many of the city’s most iconic and distinguished buildings will be illuminated in celebration of the event, including Victoria Rooms, the Wills Memorial Building, Millennium Square, Bristol Hippodrome, Temple Meads train station, PRYZM and City Hall on the opening night.

In celebration of this year’s Bristol Light Festival, many city centre businesses have created special offers and one-off events for those visiting. There will be extended opening hours for St Nicks Market including late night Saturday opening for both indoor and outdoor markets until 9pm on February 4 and 11.

St George’s Bristol will be creating a Bristol Light Festival inspired cocktail ‘The Lumen’ which will be available at the venue’s bar throughout the festival. The Left Handed Giant brewpub at Finzels Reach has created a limited edition ‘Bright Beams’ pale ale, brewed exclusively to celebrate Bristol Light Festival.

Vicky Lee, Head of Bristol City Centre BID said: “The event embodies everything that Bristol represents and showcases it as the vibrant, playful and creative city that we know and love.

“We want to bring a sense of fun, togetherness, and joy to the city whilst encouraging visitors to explore Bristol at night, enjoying the centre’s rich selection of night-time economy businesses along the way. We look forward to welcoming visitors to Bristol Light Festival to enjoy the city centre and all that it has to offer.”

Katherine Jewkes, Creative Director said: “This year we are bringing some exciting artworks to the festival, all designed to surprise and delight people. There’s something for everyone in this year’s programme - many of the artworks this year are interactive, pieces like ‘Scream the House Down’, ‘Halo’, ‘Trumpet Flowers’ and returning favourite ‘Swing Song’ all encourage audiences to play – whether that is by screaming, tapping, dancing or swinging.

“There are more reflective experiences like Continuum, Sirens and Ophelia for audiences who want to slow down and take a quieter magical moment in the busy city, and there are lots of beautiful immersive spaces too with Morag Myerscough’s ‘Let us Shine’, PYTCH’s ‘Beam’ and ‘Overheard in Bristol’.

“Visitors can take in each installation across one evening or come across multiple nights and really explore the city. We’re so excited to fill Bristol with colour and light and for people to experience this year’s event.”

For more details, visit https://bristollightfestival.org/blf-2023/