Liverpool's River of Light festival will return this autumn with 13 illuminated artworks displayed across the waterfront and city centre from Friday 23 October until Sunday 1 November 2026.
The free outdoor festival features light and sound installations from national and international artists. This year's theme is "Together", described by organisers as a celebration of "connection, community and shared experiences".
Where to see the installations
The light trail extends along the waterfront and in key city-centre locations including Williamson Square and St Paul's Square. The installations will be lit between 17:00 and 21:00 each night. Quiet hours will be announced ahead of the festival.
What artworks are featured
The 13 artworks include: Together by Murugiah, Sam Wiehl and Glomoth, a large-scale projection on the Wapping Dock Wall created with input from Liverpool community groups; Invisible Cities by Atelier Sisu, an immersive installation exploring imagination and urban environments; Flower Power by Spectaculaires – Allumeurs D'Images, featuring giant illuminated flowers; and The Anooki by Inook, which features the Anooki characters playing hide-and-seek around Liverpool Town Hall.
Further artworks include Unity by Amigo and Amigo, an interactive installation focusing on human connection; Paradigm by This is Loop, a light and sound installation exploring perspectives; Colour Rush by Liz West; Today I Love You by Massimo Uberti; Coloured Peonies by TILT; The Stars Come Out at Night by Stellar Creates; POP! by Gentilhomme; Dream Herd by Amigo and Amigo; and LOOP by Olivier Girouard and Jonathan Villeneuve, a flipbook-style interactive artwork combining sound, movement and light.
Getting there
City-centre parking is available for people travelling by car. Princes Dock multi-storey car park has accessible parking facilities. Road closures will be in place during the festival, with more information to follow.
A map of the River of Light 2026 trail is available online.
