Luminarian: when is the free, family-friendly immersive experience - and how can you get tickets?

Bristol Light Festival is bringing t a multi-sensory pop-up to the town to provide free summer fun for families during the summer holidays.

The Luminarian is an inflatable dome that is filled with interactive light displays, tunnels, sensory rooms and domes. It will be coming to College Green from 4 to 14 August, open from 1pm to 7pm daily.

Head of Bristol City Centre BID Vicky Lee said: “The summer in Bristol is a wonderful time to be in the city centre and hosting the magical Luminarium will be a great boost for the businesses in the area.

“It will fill our city with colour and art and be a fantastic addition to the already bustling calendar of events and experiences for tourists and residents alike.

“We’re also looking forward to programming the experience with sessions from Bristol creatives to include music, poetry and even some yoga.

“We will be outreaching to communities across Bristol to invite them to enjoy this unique free experience.”

The attraction takes inspiration from Islamic and Gothic cathedrals as well as modern architecture.

The Luminarium is powered by sunlight, which creates beautiful kaleidoscopic colours within the dome.

It is suitable for all ages and is particularly suitable for those with special needs who enjoy sensory experiences.

The Luminarium is half the size of a football pitch on the inside and has travelled to 43 countries, hosting more than three million visitors.

It was created by Alan Parkinson, designer and founder of Architects of Air, in 1992.

Alan said: “We grew Architects of Air from a theatre project for people with learning disabilities.

“Inclusivity has remained at the heart of the work we do with each exhibition of Luminarium.

“It embraces all ages, all abilities, all cultures and communities.

“The residency at College Green this summer will be the first time a Luminarium has visited Bristol in 21 years and we can’t wait to see how people interact with the experience - it’s a truly unique response from each visitor.”

The Luminarium is wheelchair accessible. Schools and organisations for children and adults with accessibility needs are being invited to join the experience with quiet sessions available.

The attraction is in Bristol as part of the City Centre and High Streets Recovery and Renewal programme.

Cllr Craig Cheney, who is Deputy Mayor and Cabinet member for Finance, Governance and Performance, said: “We’re delighted to see the Luminarium arriving in the city in August.

“Culture and events form a key part of our city’s offering to those who choose to live, work and study here.

“Supporting the recovery of the sector through the City Centre and High Streets Recovery and Renewal programme and bringing people into the city is providing a much-needed boost to local business after a difficult few years.

“We look forward to seeing communities from across the city and all walks of life enjoy this activity on College Green.”

Tickets are free and can be booked online in advance here.