Lighting way to big success in Lancaster

The two-night arts festival attracted 21,000 visitors last year, generating over half a million pounds for the district.

Now in its fourth year the cultural event taking place on November 6-7 is set to be bigger than ever.

Starting on Friday, the festival will kick off with illuminations across historic buildings brought alive through theatre, dance, projection and light.

Coun Darren Clifford, cabinet member with responsibility for leisure, culture and tourism, said: “Light up Lancaster is established itself as a ‘must see’ event. It showcases just how local art and culture can be used to illuminate the history and heritage of our small city and show off its big story.

“It’s a real partnership event and the Lancaster Arts Partners deserve a huge amount of praise for their organisation of not just Light up Lancaster but also their other events, including First Fridays, which make the city such a lively and attractive place for residents and visitors.

“Their work, in addition to events organised and funded by the Lancaster Business Improvement District, are crucial to the city’s future regeneration.”

Not only will the city’s iconic buildings be illuminated but dog lovers will also have the chance to show off their pooches in the light.

Light Up Your Pooch, a parade of illuminated dogs will take place on Friday as well as an illuminated arts trail for all the family through the streets of the city centre.

Lancaster’s Haffner Orchestra will also play Handel’s Water Music synchronised with coloured fountains, in Market Square on Friday, between 6pm and 9.30pm.

On Saturday visitors can enjoy a host of activities, from walks to workshops plus tours of the castle and lantern making.

In the evening the Lancaster Fireworks Spectacular will be launched at 8pm, with an array of live performances, from Lancaster Castle.

For timings, safety guidance and forwristband info for viewing Saturday’s fireworks from Giant Axe and Quay Meadow – visit www.lightuplancaster.co.uk.