Bright ideas to help the whole family trip the light fantastic
October 14-16
City of Lights: Life
A pair of spectacular immersive sound and light shows, with images projected onto two of Carlisle’s most famous landmarks. The first will transform the exterior of Carlisle Cathedral, takes viewers through 24 hours on earth with views of the sun, the oceans and the clouds. The second, at Carlisle Castle, is a celebration of the beauty and creativity of human life.
Tickets are available from the Carlisle Tourist Information Centre on 01228 598596. discovercarlisle.co.uk
October 15-30 and until January 3, 2022
Lightpool and Blackpool Illuminations
No light show in the world is as famous as Blackpool Illuminations and this year they will shine until January 3rd. They were first switched on in September 1879 and in recent years the six-mile stretch of lights along the Prom have been supplemented by a free programme of light installations, art trials and live performances as part of the award-winning Lightpool Festival (15-30 October) at venues around the town centre. visitblackpool.com
November 5-6
Light Up Lancaster
See Lancaster in a whole new light with free performances, music and installations throughout the city on the theme of Flights of the Imaganation. One of the annual event’s most popular features is a light show projected onto the walls of the castle courtyard - this year’s show Leap will take the audience on a journey across the sky and into the future. In Market Square, the sculptural piece The Hourglass will lead the viewers on an epic quest. The firework show will be on Saturday evening. lightuplancaster.co.uk
November 17-December 30 (selected dates)
Bridgewater glow
The RHS Garden Bridgewater which opened this year has been a huge hit, giving gardeners no end of inspiration and ideas, and it will be particularly illuminating through November and December. Visitors will be able to follow a twinkling trail, revealing plants, trees and water features in a new light. Tickets must be booked in advance. For more information and to book, go to rhs.org.uk/bridgewaterglow
November 18-January 3
Lightopia, Manchester
The award winning Lightopia will light up Heaton Park this Christmas, with huge new installations, interactive exhibits, lasers, 3D projections and water shows, as well as a fantasy-themed light tail through the park. lightopiafestival.com
Win a family ticket to Lightopia
25 November-December 23
Southport Light Trail
An enchanting light trail will weave a 1.2km long route around through Victoria Park and will feature 3D projections, light tunnels, a wishing tree, interactive shadow play and a laser light maze. The park is the venue for the ever-popular Flower Show and organisers of the Luminate light trail, which has previously been a hit at the Queen’s Sandringham Estate. For tickets and more information, go to luminate.live.
December 3-12, 4-10pm
Lightwaves, Salford Quays
The annual 10-day free interactive light festival features a trail of illuminated installations that animate and transform the outdoor surroundings. With a focus on bold new commissions, the festival supports international artists alongside local and emerging talent. quaysculture.com
READ MORE: Bonfire and fireworks events in and around Lancashire
