Light Up Wakefield is making a return to the city centre from 17th to 19th November, offering three days of dazzling light displays, delectable street food, a Christmas Craft & Gift Market, street performances, and more.
Cllr Michelle Collins, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Sport, said: “We’re really excited for Light Up Wakefield to kick off our festive season with a brilliant light trail for everyone to enjoy.
“There are some spectacular installations to see and once you’ve done that, you can head back to the festive marquee to enjoy some shopping in the market and live music. It makes for a great family evening out.”
Prepare to see the city from a completely different perspective by following the breathtaking light trail. The trail will feature LEAP, by imitating the dog, taking place on all three evenings from 5pm to 8pm. LEAP is a projection mapping piece that combines heartfelt storytelling, stunning animations, and a live singer.
You can also anticipate encountering an array of extraordinary light installations, such as The Glasshouse by Wayne Sables and Beautiful Hazards by Richard William Wheater, which will illuminate the windows of Theatre Royal.
Visitors can also make their way to The Hepworth Wakefield for Nectary. Crafted by artist Alison Smith and scientist Dr. Chris Hassall, Nectary invites visitors to step into the perspective of a pollinating insect amidst enormous glowing flowers.
And why not pay a visit to Nocturno for Funkytown – a Westgate windows extravaganza by Tony Wade, Helen Thomas, and local residents – promising a disco vibe! Light Up will also be hosting Funkytown lantern-making workshops for the whole family to enjoy throughout the festival.
Once the trail has been explored, visitors can indulge in a delightful array of crafts, gifts, and treats from traders at the Christmas Craft & Gift Market, housed within a festive marquee.
The event will also see the return of the tipi bar – providing an opportunity to grab a drink and enjoy live music.
Ideal for the entire family, Fettle & Fable Theatre will present a newly devised walkabout show, ‘The Usherette’, alongside her shadow show, ‘Eek’. Additionally, there will be a variety of craft activities and even a chance to meet an elf at the indoor marquee in the precinct.
Event partners, including Trinity Walk, Wakefield Cathedral, The Ridings Shopping Centre, and CAPA College, will also host festive activities, encompassing crafts, light installations, Santa’s Grotto, and much more.
