River of Light 2026: Everything you need to know
Press AssociationLiverpool will be transformed into a giant illuminated gallery this autumn as the free River of Light festival returns to the city.
The annual event will see a light installation trail extend along the waterfront and in the city centre during the evenings until Sunday 1 November.
The festival's theme this year is "Together", something which organisers say is a celebration of "connection, community and shared experiences".
The 2026 festival features 13 artworks.
Here is everything you need to know.
Press AssociationWhat is the River of Light?
River of Light is a free, outdoor illuminated gallery featuring light and sound installations from a range of national and international artists.
They will be located along the waterfront and in key spots across the city centre.
Press AssociationWhere and when does it take place?
This year's trail has expanded beyond the city's waterfront to areas including Williamson Square and St Paul's Square.
The installations will be lit up between 17:00 and 21:00 each night, with "quiet hours" to be announced.
Press Association
Press AssociationWhat are the installations?
The artworks featured for 2026 are:
Together by Murugiah, Sam Wiehl and Glomoth. A large-scale projection on the Wapping Dock Wall, created with input from Liverpool community groups and designed to represent unity and collective experiences.
Invisible Cities by Atelier Sisu. An immersive installation exploring imagination and urban environments through light and colour.
Flower Power by Spectaculaires – Allumeurs D'Images. Giant illuminated flowers creating a vibrant, playful landscape.
The Anooki by Inook. Features the famous Anooki characters playing hide-and-seek around Liverpool Town Hall.
Unity by Amigo and Amigo. An interactive artwork focusing on co-operation and human connection.
Paradigm by This is Loop. A thought-provoking light and sound installation exploring changing perspectives.
Colour Rush by Liz West. A bold, colourful installation known for transforming spaces with vibrant light.
Today I Love You by Massimo Uberti. A poetic illuminated artwork centred on communication and affection.
Coloured Peonies by TILT. Large glowing flowers inspired by nature and renewal.
The Stars Come Out at Night by Stellar Creates. A celestial-themed installation creating a magical night-time atmosphere.
POP! by Gentilhomme. Interactive playful puppets that come to life through audience participation.
Dream Herd by Amigo and Amigo. An interactive installation featuring illuminated animal forms.
LOOP by Olivier Girouard and Jonathan Villeneuve. A flipbook-style interactive artwork combining sound, movement and light.
Press AssociationWhere can I park?
There will be road closures.
There is a range of city-centre parking near to the event for people travelling by car.
Princes Dock multi-storey car park has accessible parking facilities and is close to the waterfront.
Other car parks include Royal Albert Dock and Liverpool ONE.
More information regarding Liverpool City Council city-centre parking can be found here.
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