Light Up Wakefield 2026: Here's what to expect at this year's festive event

Light Up Wakefield returns from Friday, November 13 and Saturday, November 14, transforming the city into a spectacular celebration of light, creativity and nature.

During the festival, visitors can explore light installations across Wakefield city centre, including Limbic Cinema’s ‘Rewild’, a magical, illuminated animation on County Hall that invites audiences to become part of the artwork.

On Friday, November 13, visitors can enjoy the annual festive Light Switch-On, taking place at 5.30pm in the Cathedral Precinct.

There will be live entertainment from local performers on the main stage compered by Rhubarb Radio.

The Light Switch-On officially begins this year’s nature-themed light art trail, featuring fantastic installations across the city centre.

After last year’s success, the Light Up parade returns on Saturday, November 14, with visitors being able to enjoy ‘Nature’s Return’, an illuminated parade celebrating the return of wildlife to Wakefield’s rivers, meadows, moors and garden, led by a towering Mother Nature figure, glowing creatures emerge from the darkness, creating a moving tribute to the natural world.

Throughout the weekend, Wakefield Exchange (WX) will be the official Light Up Event Hub where visitors can pick up their trail maps, enjoy street food and take part in Kaleider’s interactive light art experience, ‘Twist & Shine’.

Coun Lukasz Borcz, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Sport, said: “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."