Member Article

Full programme announced for Lumiere Durham 2017

The UK’s largest light festival will be returning to illuminate the streets of Durham this Autumn, for the fifth time since it’s inception in 2009.

From 16 - 19 November, visitors can enjoy an array of 29 installations, by talented artists from around the world, over the River Wear and around the city.

The festival is commissioned by Durham County Council, with additional support from Arts Council England, Durham University and a host of further funders and supporters.

In 2015, Lumiere Durham attracted an estimated 200,000 visitors, generating £9.6m for the local economy. The success lead to the launch of Lumiere London, which debuted in 2016 and attracted an estimated 1.3m people.

The full programme will include something for everyone to enjoy, with installations including a winter wonderland in Durham’s Market Place and an illuminated field of flowers in the cathedral cloisters

Simon Henig, Leader of Durham County Council said: “In just a few weeks time our ‘perfect little city’ will be transformed once again into a spectacular, extraordinary, mesmerising and fascinating place of light.

“Illuminating our history and heritage, landscapes and architecture in ways we could never imagine this year’s line-up looks set to be another truly global event. It gives us immense pleasure to welcome the world to Durham and to shine a light on our many wonderful people and places.”

Lumiere is produced by Artichoke, creative producers for art in the public realm, who have been transforming cities across the UK since 2006.

Helen Marriage, Artichoke Director, said: “Artichoke is thrilled to be back in Durham for the fifth edition of Lumiere and I cannot thank all our funders and partners enough for their support in making the festival possible once again.

“This festival is a very special thing, built on our long-term partnership with the city and its people.

“From the participation of local residents in the creation of the artworks to Durham County Council’s unbending support for the festival, it is this sense of civic pride in Lumiere that informs and reflects the programme at every level.”

Like previous years, the central Peninsula area will be ticketed nightly between 4.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets and festival programmes will be available from Tuesday 17th October from all County Durham ticketing outlets.

Full programme details can be found on the Lumiere Festival website.