The highly anticipated Birmingham Light Festival is officially confirmed to make a spectacular return to the city in February 2026, promising an even larger and more dazzling display of light-based art.
Following a triumphant debut that attracted over 64,000 visitors, the free public art gallery will once again transform Birmingham's city centre into a nocturnal wonderland. The festival is set to be bigger, illuminating more urban spaces than ever before.
Dates and New Locations for 2026
Mark your calendars for a three-day extravaganza from Thursday, February 12 to Sunday, February 15, 2026. The timing offers a perfect opportunity for a unique Valentine's Day experience or a captivating winter evening out.
In an exciting expansion, the 2026 festival will spread its glow to new districts, including the Bullring and Edgbaston Village. This growth is part of a city-wide collaboration that continues to involve all five city-centre Business Improvement Districts (BIDs).
Opportunities for Local Artists and a Lasting Legacy
The festival is strengthening its commitment to local talent. A new call is out for artists and creatives to submit their proposals, with one selected design becoming a new permanent installation for the city.
This continues the successful Legacy programme, which previously gifted Birmingham three permanent artworks. City Curator Alex Nicholson-Evans expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "We were overwhelmed at the response to the first festival... 99% of that audience said they wanted the festival to return."
She added, "Next year's festival is already shaping up to be incredible. We have some wonderful new partners involved... which means we're able to grow the Festival to reach even more areas of Birmingham."
The festival is produced by Outdoor Places Unusual Spaces (OPUS) and supported by Birmingham City Council and funding from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
To stay informed about the upcoming artworks and events, you can sign up for the mailing list at www.birminghamlightfestival.co.uk or follow the festival on Instagram at @birminghamlightfestival.
