Welcome to Yorkshire
Published on September 14th, 2026
•This winter, Wakefield is set to sparkle and shine as the popular Light Up Wakefield festival returns for another year. Taking place from Friday 13 to Saturday 14 November, the city will be transformed into a dazzling spectacle of light, creativity, and nature, inviting everyone to experience Wakefield in a whole new way.
Exciting Events Planned
The festivities will kick off with the annual Light Switch-On at 5:30pm on Friday 13 November, held in the Cathedral Precinct. This event promises to be lively, featuring local performers showcasing their talents on the main stage, compered by Rhubarb Radio. The Light Switch-On will also mark the official start of this year's nature-themed light art trail, which will illuminate the city centre with fantastic installations.
What to Expect
Visitors can look forward to an enchanting journey through Wakefield, where numerous light installations will be on display. One highlight will be Limbic Cinema's ‘Rewild’, an illuminated animation projected on County Hall that invites audiences to engage with the artwork. This interactive experience allows people to feel as if they are part of the magic, making it a must-see attraction.
The Return of the Parade
After its success last year, the Light Up parade is back on Saturday 14 November. This year’s theme, ‘Nature’s Return’, will celebrate the resurgence of wildlife in Wakefield's rivers, meadows, moors, and gardens. Attendees will witness a stunning display led by a towering figure of Mother Nature, with glowing creatures emerging from the night, creating a moving tribute to the beauty of the natural world.
Event Hub and Activities
Throughout the weekend, Wakefield Exchange (WX) will serve as the official event hub for Light Up Wakefield. Here, visitors can pick up maps of the light trail, sample delicious street food, and engage with Kaleider’s interactive light art experience, ‘Twist & Shine’. This vibrant hub will be the perfect place to gather and plan the evening's adventures.
Support Local Businesses
Lukasz Borcz, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Sport, expressed excitement about the festival:
“We’re really excited for Light Up Wakefield to kick off our festive season with a brilliant light trail for everyone to enjoy. The installations look spectacular, and don’t forget the magical parade too.”
He also encouraged visitors to take the opportunity to start their Christmas shopping early while supporting local businesses in the city centre.