One of Birmingham's most cherished historic green spaces is set for an enchanting transformation this winter. St Paul's Square in the Jewellery Quarter, the city's last remaining Georgian square, will become the home to a captivating swarm of artificial fireflies.
A Whimsical Winter Display
The installation, titled Firefly Field, will illuminate the churchyard of St Paul's from February 12 until February 15, 2026. It forms a key part of the city's vibrant Birmingham Light Festival, often dubbed Birmingham's answer to the Blackpool Illuminations. The artwork by Studio Toer will feature numerous glowing points of light that hover and dart above the grass, mimicking the mesmerising dance of real Lampyridae beetles.
Organisers have confirmed that the piece will be powered sustainably, with the energy consumption of all 100 lights equating to that of a single standard household lightbulb. A microgrant from the Jewellery Quarter Common Room will support the installation with a gentle ambient soundtrack and uplighters, ensuring a calm and sensory experience without sudden loud noises.
More Free Festival Highlights
Firefly Field is completely free to visit, as are all the other central installations in the festival lineup. This year's programme promises a spectacular array of attractions, including:
- A fire-spitting organ at the Bullring.
- A free silent disco with glowing eyes on Victoria Square.
- The return of a popular glittering heart, this time located at the Mailbox.
The historic churchyard of St Paul's is a year-round attraction for Brummies, with a history as a communal space dating back to the 1700s. Locally once known as 'Tittybottle Park', its autumn colours and spring blooms make it a beloved retreat, now enhanced by this magical winter light show.
Planning Your Visit
Visitors looking to explore all the festival has to offer can find a full map and details of the artworks on the official Birmingham Light Festival website. The event will also be celebrated with a supporting programme in local hospitality venues around the Jewellery Quarter area.
