A free showcase of light and sound installations, over two-nights across the city this February, transforming Lincoln into an illuminated playground for all ages.
Lincoln’s historic streets and landmarks will light up with breath-taking creative installations and playful interactive works by artists from across the UK.
Open to everyone, Lincoln Lights takes place early evening between 5.30pm and 9.30pm on Thursday and Friday of the February half-term. Come along and immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of light, creativity, and joy.
Lincoln Lights: What to see and where:
City Square - Swing Song by Bristol Light Festival
Hop onto one of the six interactive swings and glide back and forth to craft your own musical masterpiece and mesmerising light show. This interactive and fun installation uses sound and light to create a unique and playful experience. Each swing controls a different musical element from percussion, bassline and melody, and each movement contributes to the symphony alongside a dynamic light show.
Exchange Square - The Whilers by Air Giants
The Whilers are unlike anything you've seen before—part sloth, part spirit, part dragon. Standing at an incredible 3 meters tall and powered by advanced robotic technology, these otherworldly glowing creatures are stopping briefly in Lincoln to engage with passersby. This must-see experience beautifully combines art and technology, promising an unforgettable encounter.
Cornhill - Shadow Dance by Impossible
Step into ShadowDance, and take ‘dancing in the streets’ to a whole new level. Watch as powerful floodlights project your vibrant, multi-coloured silhouette to building-sized proportions. Feel the energy as your shadow mingles and interacts with others, in a kaleidescopic shadow playground, fun for all ages. Are you ready to dance with shadows?
Stonebow: Chroma by Urban Projections
Let the Stonebow be your canvas! This interactive experience transforms a historic Lincoln landmark with light, image and motion. Powered by The Light Cycle, the artwork invites you in to remix, and create live visuals that celebrate diversity and spark joy. Together, we’ll reimagine the streets as a place for shared stories, bold colours, and collective celebration.
Lincoln Castle - Bath House Water by ITHACA Studio
See the Bath House come to life in this mesmerising sound and light show by internationally acclaimed ITHACA Studio. Animated streams of multi-coloured lights ripple and swirl out from the old Bath House like the soapy water that used to flow there many years ago. Paired with a bespoke soundscape, this 2-3 minute looped show delivers a captivating experience for all ages. Don’t miss this site-specific commission created exclusively for Lincoln Lights 2025.
Lincoln Castle- Shadowplay by Walk the Plank A captivating show that blends installation with performance, Shadowplay is a Walk the Plank classic – a charming crowd pleaser suitable for audiences of all ages.
This fantastical show, inspired by European folklore, German expressionism and Gothic Victorian psychedelia, will draw you in with the powerful simplicity of light and shadow.
Castle Square – The Kettle by Lumo Workshop and Rainbow lights, Cathedral
Collect your limited-edition wearable artwork, created exclusively for Lincoln Lights 2025! Designed to come alive under ultraviolet light, these badges are more than just a keepsake—they’re a warm welcome, symbolising unity, and connection. Numbers are limited to make sure to get in there quick! While you're there, enjoy the Cathedral’s stunning illumination as it lights up the night, adding to the magic of the event.
Exchequer Gate - Angels and Demons, Illuminos
Illuminos present a new projection artwork for Lincoln - Angels and Demons, which playfully transforms the Exchequer Gate in a battle of mischief and miracles. Playing with the legend of the Lincoln Imp (hiding in the Cathedral), beauty and beastly battle for control of the gate, each foiling the other’s creations. Who will win out? Join us at the gate to find out.
Steep Hill to Cornhill- The Bright Side, Stellar Creates See hidden corners of Lincoln city centre shining bright with messages of joy and hope. The Bright Side will illuminate secret spaces with messages of positivity from the local community as we inspire each other to shake off the darkness of winter and celebrate together.
Lincoln Lights is the latest production to be delivered by Lincoln-based Threshold Studios, in partnership with Destination Lincolnshire and made possible thanks to government funding from Be Lincoln Town Deal Fund under the Lincoln Connected project.
Naomi Tweddle, City of Lincoln Council Leader and Be Lincoln Town Deal board member said:
"Threshold Studios have delivered a diverse programme of entertainment in the city as part of their partnership with Visit Lincoln, under the Be Lincoln Town Deal project Lincoln Connected.
‘Their work providing unique experiences to our residents and visitors has made the partnership a success and is delivering more things to be excited about locally, alongside our Events in Lincoln programme.
"We look forward to Lincoln Lights brightening up our vibrant city even more while providing free family entertainment for the February half-term."
Lincoln Castle’s Site Manager, Kimberley Vickers comments:
‘’We are thrilled to be part of this year’s Lincoln Lights event, welcoming visitors to experience two captivating installations in the historic surroundings of Lincoln Castle. Events like this not only highlight the versatility of our spaces but also celebrate the creativity and cultural vibrancy of Lincoln. We look forward to working with Threshold Studios and our partners to deliver another unforgettable experience for the city.
"As part of the Lincoln Connected project, Threshold will produce a series of creative experiences for Lincoln’s visitors and residents alike. Several commissions have already taken place including the Lincoln Imporium which was timed to appear in the Festival of History and Eulogy, an immersive experience that saw a shipping container appear in Cornhill Square in October 2024 as part of the city’s Halloween programme ‘The Big Spook’, supported by Lincoln BIG."
Laura Freer, Destination Lincolnshire Interim CEO comments:
“We’re delighted to welcome visitors to our historic city for this spectacular light event. This celebration not only showcases the rich history and charm of our city but also creates a magical experience that brings people together.
"Events like these are vital for showcasing our vibrant cultural scene and supporting local businesses, while offering unforgettable memories for everyone who attends.
Threshold’s Chief Executive Samantha Lindley comments:
“If you’re looking for something to brighten up the dark start to the year then Lincoln Lights could be just the thing. It’s a chance to experience a wonderful city in a whole new way.”
Further information and an interactive map can be found via Visit Lincoln's website.