Light Up Wakefield: Spectacular illuminated parade set to transform city centre
A spectacular illuminated parade celebrating nature, creativity and community spirit is set to light up Wakefield city centre next month.
The Light Up Wakefield parade will take place on Saturday, November 14, with residents and visitors invited to line the streets and watch the colourful spectacle unfold.
The parade, called ‘Nature’s Return’, will begin at 5.30pm at County Hall before making its way through the city centre.
It will travel through Wood Street before finishing on Brook Street, taking around 30 minutes.
Organisers say the best place to watch the parade will be Wood Street, giving spectators the chance to see the illuminated performers and giant creations up close.
The spectacular procession will be led by a towering Mother Nature figure, with glowing creatures emerging from the darkness as the parade celebrates the return of wildlife to Wakefield's rivers, meadows, moors and gardens.
The result promises to be a magical display of light, movement and creativity in the heart of the city.
Coun Lukasz Borcz, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Sport, said the event would be a great way to kick off the festive season.
“We can’t wait for this stunning parade to light up our city centre,” he said.
“Residents and visitors can come and watch this wonderful event as part of Light Up Wakefield.
“It’s a great way to start off the festive season, and an opportunity to enjoy some early Christmas shopping and support local businesses.”
The illuminated parade forms part of Light Up Wakefield, a two-day celebration taking place in Wakefield city centre from Friday, November 13 to Saturday, November 14.
The event will run from 5pm to 9pm on both nights, with a spectacular light trail featuring dazzling installations around the city centre.
An Event Hub will be based at WX Wakefield Exchange, where visitors can pick up a free trail map and plan their route around the installations.
The event offers visitors the chance to explore Wakefield after dark while enjoying art, light and creative installations across the city.
Spectators are being encouraged to arrive early, wrap up against the November weather and enjoy the wider Light Up Wakefield celebrations.