Return of city's Light Night will be talk of the town as it moves into half term

With the theme A City Speaks…, this year's Light Night will form part of Leeds 400, marking 400 years since Leeds was granted its first Royal Charter by King Charles I. Through contemporary art, the festival will explore the stories, people and places that have shaped Leeds over the past four centuries while looking towards the city's future.

Using light, projection, performance and immersive experiences, artists will invite audiences to see Leeds in new ways, celebrating everything that makes the city unique.

Transforming familiar streets and buildings through art since 2005, the citywide festival is completely free and will feature over 40 artworks by artists working in Leeds, the UK and internationally.

The full programme is set to be announced at the end of September.

Light Night Leeds is one of the UK's largest light festivals, last year welcoming more than 200,000 visitors across the city over the two nights.

The festival is organised and delivered by Leeds City Council with additional funding from Arts Council England, alongside support from sponsors, trusts and foundations based in Leeds, across the UK and internationally.

Celebrations for Leeds 400 have taken place across the city throughout the year, marking 400 years since Leeds was awarded its first Royal Charter by King Charles I on 13 July 1626.

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, said: “Light Night Leeds really shows off our city in the best light each year, bringing thousands of people together to enjoy hugely impressive projections and immersive experiences.

“The event is so important for the city, helping to establish Leeds as a cultural destination while making art accessible to everyone.

“The move into October half term, when the evenings are darker and children are off school, will make it easier for even more families to experience everything Light Night Leeds has to offer.

“It's wonderful to see an event that has been such an important part of Leeds since 2005 also play a key role in the Leeds 400 celebrations, using contemporary creativity to explore our past while looking towards our future."

Light Night Leeds 2026 takes place on Wednesday 28 and Thursday 29 October, from 6pm to 9.30pm.

More details about the programme will be revealed in the coming weeks. Visit lightnightleeds.co.uk and follow Light Night Leeds on social media for more information.

More information about Leeds 400 and the events programme can also be found at Welcome to Leeds 400 – A Year of Celebration | Culture Programmes.

ENDS