Prepare to be dazzled as the much-anticipated River of Light returns to Liverpool this October, igniting the city’s night skies with an enchanting display of illuminated artistry. The event, which has become a beloved tradition, promises to be more captivating than ever before, with four stunning new artworks joining the mesmerising light trail.
Once again, Liverpool will play host to the imaginative creations of the world’s most innovative light artists, continuing the tradition of illuminating the city’s soul. Following the resounding success of the 2022 event, which attracted a quarter of a million visitors and injected a staggering £6 million into the local economy, this year’s River of Light will grace us from Friday, October 27th, to Sunday, November 5th.
The theme for this year’s spectacle is “United By Light,” drawing inspiration from Liverpool’s history as the host city of one of the most memorable Eurovision Song Contests, where music united the world. As the event unfolds, the city itself will be united by the mesmerizing glow of these radiant installations.
While many of the details about the 2km-long light trail remain shrouded in secrecy, we can unveil a sneak peek of the artistic wonders that await:
Emergence
Prepare to be transported into a world of meditative wonder as you explore a three-by-ten-meter pavilion adorned with over 10,000 LED lights and mirrors. Crafted by the globally acclaimed artists, This is Loop, this installation harnesses the transformative power of light and sound to create a mesmerizing experience. A choreographed light show accompanied by an enthralling soundtrack will leave you spellbound.
Lampshades Bouquet
French artistic studio TILT adds a touch of whimsy and poetry to everyday objects with this creation. Expect to encounter gigantic outdoor versions of household lamps, illuminated in a stunning array of colors. Each lampshade bouquet is curated in a uniquely captivating way and features benches at its base, inviting you to pause and bask in its radiant glow.
Elysian and Elysian Arcs
Atelier Sisu, a Sydney-based design studio, presents these never-before-seen commissions that celebrate the beauty of the everyday. A colossal inflatable creation beckons you to walk around and through it as it dances with changing colours in response to light and form. Adding an auditory dimension, Liverpool-based award-winning composer John McHugh has crafted a brand-new soundscape to accompany both Elysian artworks.
The full lineup of installations and their locations will remain a mystery until early October, heightening the anticipation for this luminous extravaganza.
To stay updated on the latest River of Light developments, be sure to visit www.visitliverpool.com/riveroflight or follow @visitliverpool_ on Instagram.