Fancy seeing three giant illuminated koi carp drifting through the night? Or wandering a woodland walk where mirror balls scatter light like stars? Perhaps a digital waterfall that ripples at the touch of your hand is more your style. Well, you’re in luck. These aren’t just whimsical daydreams – they’re all part of dazzling biennial light festival Lumiere.
From Thursday November 13 to Saturday November 15, Durham will once again be transformed into a city-wide gallery of light, where streets, riversides and landmarks become the canvas for extraordinary works of art. Expect everything from breathtaking large-scale spectacle to quiet, contemplative encounters that invite you to pause and reflect.
This year’s programme brings together world-renowned artists, UK debuts, new commissions and vibrant community-created projects. Highlights include ‘Flutter’ by the UK’s Emma Allen, which immerses visitors in a glowing swarm of butterflies and a luminous neon bird perched on the dome of the Hotel Indigo on Old Elvet, created by Dutch artist Ralf Westerhof.
‘The 2025 Lumiere programme is a love letter in light - a glowing tribute to the wonderful city and County of Durham,’ Helen Marriage, artistic director of Artichoke, which has produced and curated Lumiere, said.
’In this 2025 edition of Durham’s world-renowned art event, you'll discover old friends alongside fresh voices and emerging talent. We’re grateful to everyone who has stood beside us over the last 15 years – helping to create unforgettable moments of light and joy for those who call the North East home and for those who travel from afar to experience the richness and diversity of this remarkable place.’
Tickets will be required to enter the central controlled zone in Durham City throughout each evening and should be booked in advance. More than half the installations are outside the ticketed zone and can be visited without a ticket. They are free, although a £1.50 booking fee applies.
County Durham residents will be able to book tickets from 10am on Tuesday 30 September. The general release to the wider public will be from 10am on Wednesday 1 October.
Ahead of tickets going live, visitors are advised to register for an account in advance via the Lumiere website here.
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