Lancaster’s festival of light

A magical after-dark experience shines a new light on the city of Lancaster, with musicians, performers and artists galore

As the weather starts to get chilly and the nights creep in and are ever longer, lovely Lancaster comes up with a dazzling way to brighten winter evenings – a magical festival of light and art. Light Up Lancaster sees thousands of visitors take to the streets to enjoy an illuminating experience that casts the most intriguing old buildings and corners of the city in a fascinating new light. See mesmerising light installations scattered in a trail around the city while mind-boggling and psychedelic projections dance up walls and along the streets. Created by the finest international light artists around, you’re invited to marvel at Lancaster’s medieval castle as the lights create an illusion of Mother Nature reclaiming the castle walls as her own. Meanwhile, over in the Market Square, you can hear the sounds of the sea whoosh through the crowds before experiencing a simulation of the dawn rising over the Judges’ Lodgings. But it’s not just lights to look at. Out on the streets, the whole community gets together as musicians, local artists and performers emerge from the light shadows, whirling up the whole of Lancaster into a party atmosphere. From the grand and magnificent, to the tiny but equally as jaw-dropping, the festival also offers the opportunity to take a look round Lancaster Library where the entire family can see the most microscopic of natural wonders. Get hands on with ‘nano-nature’ as you view the delicate veins to be found on a single leaf, or the tiny bristles on a minuscule insect. The whole event finishes with a bang with a fireworks’ spectacular launched off the roof of Lancaster’s famous castle, all set to a truly rousing soundtrack. Head to Quay Meadow for one of the best views in the city and you’ll find music, entertainment and even fire spinning jugglers, before it’s time to sit back with a hot chocolate and watch the sky transform with sound, light and plenty of drama. Light Up Lancaster runs November 3-4. For more info call 01524 582396 or visit www.lightup lancaster.co.uk