This October, Leeds will be transformed by a dazzling display of illuminated artworks as the spectacular Light Night Leeds returns.
On October 23 and 24, the city’s most recognisable buildings and public spaces will be lit up with imaginative creations from artists around the world, drawing thousands of visitors to the cultural showcase. Centred on the theme of ‘Landmarks’, this year’s event will shine a spotlight on Leeds’ historic civic architecture, contemporary landmarks, and open public areas. It will also invite audiences to reflect on their own personal landmarks — the meaningful places and memories that shape their lives.
Among this year’s highlights will be a spellbinding projection on the façade of The Queens Hotel, celebrating 200 years of the modern railway. Titled One Second Lovestory and created by German artist Dirk Rauscher, the piece depicts the fleeting romance of two strangers locking eyes in a bustling train station. The work is proudly sponsored by Markel.
Another showpiece will transform Leeds Civic Hall, where Portuguese collective Ocubo, in collaboration with the British Library, present Portals: The Machine of Worlds. This mesmerising installation draws on fantastical imagery from the library’s collection, transporting visitors into realms of science, illusion, and discovery.
In partnership with cultural venues across Leeds, this year’s inclusive citywide festival will feature large-scale projections, light installations, performances, and interactive artworks created by artists from Yorkshire, the UK, and beyond. The full programme is set to be revealed in the coming months.
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture said:
“Light Night Leeds is an event which truly exemplifies the very best of culture and life in the city, bringing thousands of people together for a collective experience which celebrates artistic ingenuity and the power of the arts to unite.
“The impact the event has on the city in terms of boosting our reputation as a cultural destination, supporting the local economy and promoting local and regional artists cannot be overstated, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to what will be an occasion like no other.”
Jamie Andrews, director of public engagement at the British Library said:
“At the British Library we are thrilled to again be involved with Light Night Leeds, a unique festival that brings art into public spaces in the city, brightening up dark autumn evenings. We’re delighted that artists Ocubo have taken inspiration for Portals: The Machine of Worlds from science fiction texts in our collection, including classics by H.G. Wells and Jules Verne. We hope visitors of all ages are inspired by Light Night Leeds and the immersive, fantastical visions of other worlds that Ocubo’s artwork will conjure.
“Our collaboration with Light Night Leeds is part of a wider commitment, as we work towards establishing a major new public space for the British Library in Leeds, to engage with local people and partners by opening up our collection through events in the city.”
Since its launch in 2005, Light Night Leeds has grown into one of the city’s most popular events. Last year alone, an estimated 210,400 visitors attended over two days, a five per cent increase on 2023 — making it the most successful edition to date.
The festival also delivered a significant economic impact in 2024, generating around £5.46 million for the local economy, up 58 per cent on the previous year. Organised and supported by Leeds City Council, the event is made possible through funding from Arts Council England’s National Lottery Project Grant alongside sponsorship from the city’s business community.
Light Night Leeds 2025 will illuminate the city on October 23 and 24, with events running each evening from 6pm to 10pm. Full programme details will be unveiled in the coming weeks.
For updates, please visit www.lightnightleeds.co.uk or follow Light Night Leeds on social media.
