Nottingham Light Night is returning on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 February 2026 for its 18th year running, bringing two nights of light art, performances and interactive stalls to the city centre.
The free festival, delivered by Nottingham City Council and It’s in Nottingham, aims to help celebrate creativity and to encourage people into the city after dark on winter nights.
With ‘home’ as the theme for 2026, more than 30 light installations conceived or created in Nottingham will be dotted around the city to reflect what the theme means to local people across different cultures and communities.
Visitors will be encouraged to explore familiar and lesser-known parts of the city, with the exhibitions being accessible for all ages.
“It brings thousands of residents and visitors together”
Alex Flint, CEO of It’s in nottingham
Highlights of this year’s programme include light and sound installation ‘Parallels’ in Old Market Square, an interactive sculpture by Air Giants in Sneinton Market, and a glowing fibre-optic artwork surrounding the Robin Hood statue at Nottingham Castle.
Alex Flint, CEO of It’s in Nottingham, said: “Nottingham Light Night is a powerful celebration of everything that makes our city exceptional, its creativity, its people and its strong sense of community.
“It brings thousands of residents and visitors together, lighting up our streets after dark and showcasing Nottingham at its most vibrant.”
The event also helps support local businesses by increasing footfall in the city centre during the evening, particularly at a quieter time of year.
Councillor Neghat Khan, leader of Nottingham City Council, said: “Light Night invites residents and visitors alike to reconnect with the city, support local businesses, and enjoy a vibrant evening of culture and creativity.
“This year’s theme of home is especially meaningful, as it showcases Nottingham’s creative talent and brings communities together.”
“Events like this play an important role in boosting the evening economy, while also reinforcing our city centre as a welcoming place for families and a lively place to be after dark – best of all, it’s free and open to everyone.”
Further installations by Nottingham-based artists will be announced soon, with full details available on itsinnottingham.com.
