Put on your gloves and hats and get ready to experience some outdoor magic this festive season as brand-new light show Brighton Lights opens in the city this December.
We’ve had Glow Wild at Wakehurst and the illuminations at Leonardslee, but this is the very first immersive winter light experience that’s actually in Brighton itself. Local artists have created a magical series of themed light installations for the show at Stanmer Park’s gorgeous One Garden, blending nature with art and innovation.
Artists include Brighton-based collaborative community group Murmuration Arts who created a Nightlight Lullabies installation. The group held creative workshops with new Brighton mothers to create lullabies that help capture the sound of soothing babies to sleep. Drawing on their research, this installation will combine sound, light and performance to connect audiences in the spirit of togetherness that the festive season is all about.
The Brighton Lights will also be home to a luminous Dream Garden featuring a range of installations from giant flowers to moon tributes, from ArtPod, Dan Fox, Martin Glover (his installation spells out ‘light’ in British Sign Language, see below), Studio Fluff, Jigantics, and Brighton Lights’ own maestro Will Thomas.
But the art isn’t the only draw. If you’re after great music, tasty food, or beautiful hand-crafted gifts, Brighton Lights won’t leave you wanting. Get yourself a crêpe from Oui Creperie or a gyro from Happy Souvlaki while you listen to live music from local acts and peruse the creations at the Christmas market.
Inclusivity is also at the heart of the event and the team have taken steps to ensure everyone can enjoy their array of attractions. Event organisers will run dedicated British Sign Language tours of the light installations, in addition to sensory-friendly sessions for children and adults where light and sound levels will be reduced. The venue is also wheelchair accessible and assistance dogs are welcome.
Buses and trains run regularly to Stanmer from central Brighton, and they’re running a shuttle service every 20 minutes from the entrance to Stanmer Park up to One Garden to make things even easier if you’re coming by public transport. But be warned – Stanmer Park can be very wet and muddy this time of year, so if you’re going to scramble through the woods like we did for a sneak peek, dress accordingly.
All in all, The Brighton Lights is one festive event you won’t want to miss this year. The wonderful group of local artists has created a gorgeous installation that everyone can enjoy, and alongside the Christmas market and live music, we reckon it’s going to be a delightful after-dark experience.
Friday 15th December to Saturday 23rd December, 4pm – 8.15pm; £16 (children £10)
One Garden Brighton, Stanmer Park, BN1 9SE
thebrightonlights.co.uk
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