Light Night Leeds Returns During October Half Term

City’s annual light festival moves to half term for 2026

Leeds is set to host its popular Light Night festival on 28 and 29 October 2026, marking the first time the event will take place during the school half term. The move aims to make the festival more accessible to families and visitors of all ages, with darkness arriving earlier following the clock change.

Festival details and theme

Light Night Leeds will run from 6pm to 9.30pm on both evenings, featuring large-scale projections, immersive artworks, and performances across the city. The 2026 event will form part of Leeds 400, a year-long programme commemorating 400 years since Leeds was granted its first Royal Charter by King Charles I in 1626.

The festival’s theme, A City Speaks…, will explore the stories, people, and places that have shaped Leeds over the last four centuries, while also looking ahead to the city’s future. Artists from Leeds, the UK, and internationally will use light, projection, and performance to transform familiar streets and buildings into new artistic experiences.

Event scope and background

• Light Night Leeds has been running since 2005 and is one of the UK’s largest light festivals.
• The 2025 event attracted more than 200,000 visitors over two nights.
• The festival is free to attend and will showcase over 40 artworks in 2026.
• It is organised by Leeds City Council with funding support from Arts Council England and other sponsors.

Official comments

Councillor Salma Arif, deputy leader of Leeds City Council and executive member for economy, highlighted the significance of the event, stating it “really shows off our city in the best light each year” and helps establish Leeds as a cultural destination. She also noted that moving the festival into October half term will allow more families to participate in the event’s offerings.

Further information

The full programme for Light Night Leeds 2026 is expected to be announced at the end of September. For updates, the public can visit lightnightleeds.co.uk and follow the festival’s social media channels.

Additional details about the Leeds 400 celebrations can be found at Welcome to Leeds 400 – A Year of Celebration.