York BID Seeks Business Support for Colour & Light 2025, A Visual Arts Spectacle Transforming the City’s Nights

York BID (Business Improvement District) is calling on local businesses to join forces and become funding partners for the 2025 edition of the acclaimed Colour & Light project, an innovative visual arts initiative that has captivated audiences since its inception in 2023. Building on the successes of previous years, the event aims to return in 2025, continuing to enrich York's cultural landscape and bolster the early evening economy.

The Colour & Light project is a large-scale visual arts event that features a 10-minute animated projection mapping display onto York’s iconic buildings.

Running every 10 minutes between 6 and 9 pm, the projections are designed to draw crowds and invigorate the city’s atmosphere during the typically quieter winter months. The event first launched in partnership with York Minster in 2023 and returned in 2024 with the collaboration of York Museums Trust, establishing itself as a highlight in York’s cultural calendar.

Carl Alsop, Operations Manager at York BID, expressed the significant impact of the event, stating,

“Colour & Light brings in much-needed footfall and a boost to the winter economy when businesses need it most. The public response has been incredible, and we really hope to be able to bring this world-class event back to York.”

The future of colour & light in York

As preparations begin for the 2025 edition, York BID is exploring new potential sites for the projections and is actively seeking business partners to ensure the event's continuation. The involvement of businesses is crucial, as their financial contributions will enable the event to proceed and expand.

Rachel Bean, Project Manager at York BID, highlighted the importance of local business support, saying,

“Colour & Light is a spectacular event that brings York’s built heritage together with the city’s UNESCO City of Media Arts designation. With business support, we hope to continue to deliver this accessible and family-friendly experience that excites, engages, and inspires. Unfortunately, Colour & Light 2025 will not happen without the support of funders.”

Economic impact and business opportunities

The previous editions of Colour & Light have not only delighted audiences but also significantly benefited York’s economy. The events have attracted over 80,000 visitors and generated an estimated £1 million for the local economy. With ambitions to surpass these figures in 2025, York BID anticipates even greater economic activity and enhanced civic pride as a result of the event.

For businesses, becoming a funding partner offers more than just a return on investment; it presents a unique opportunity to connect with a large and diverse audience. The event provides unparalleled brand exposure, reaching thousands of local, regional, and national visitors, and aligns organisations with a prestigious city centre improvement initiative.

How to get involved

Businesses interested in supporting Colour & Light 2025 can find more information on the dedicated funding partnership webpage.

About York BID

York BID is dedicated to enhancing the city centre environment, making York a more welcoming and attractive place for residents, visitors, and businesses alike. Their initiatives range from city beautification projects to the development of events that boost the local economy and foster community spirit. Through partnerships and targeted investments, York BID strives to ensure that the city continues to thrive as a vibrant and dynamic destination.

About Purple Flag accreditation

York’s Purple Flag status is a testament to the city’s excellence in managing its evening and night-time economy. Administered by York BID, this international accreditation recognises towns and cities that offer a safe, welcoming, and well-managed environment after dark. The Purple Flag award is supported by various BID projects, including Colour & Light, which contribute to maintaining and enhancing York’s reputation as a top-tier night-time destination.

For more information about York’s Purple Flag accreditation, visit the dedicated web page.

By fostering collaborations between local businesses and cultural projects like Colour & Light, York BID continues to play a pivotal role in the city’s ongoing success as a hub of creativity and innovation. With the help of business partners, the 2025 edition of Colour & Light promises to be another unforgettable event that will light up York’s winter nights.