News / Bristol Light Festival
Bristol Light Festival brings £11m boost to local economy
The Bristol Light Festival, which returned to multiple venues across Bristol in late January, has delivered its highest-ever economic boost to the city.
According to figures released by the festival organisers, Bristol City Centre Business Improvement District (BID), visitor spending reached £9.4m, marking a 30 per cent increase from the previous year (£8.7m) .
The economic boost also included over £1m generated by overnight visitors, thanks to accommodation bookings.
Vicky Lee, director of Bristol City Centre BID, said: “Bristol Light Festival has firmly established itself as a powerful economic driver for the city. Visitors are spending more time here, supporting local businesses, and experiencing everything Bristol has to offer.
The fifth edition of the Bristol Light Festival also included a world premiere celebrating Bristol’s Drum & Bass scene, Anthems Volume One
“The surge in visitor spending, longer dwell times, and the increase in overnight stays all highlight the festival’s immense value. It’s fantastic to see this event providing such a crucial boost at a time when businesses need it most.”
Over 200,000 people attended between January 31 and February 9, contributing to an overall economic impact of £11 million.
During the annual festival, playful, immersive, and colourful artworks illuminated some of Bristol’s iconic landmarks, such as the Floating Harbour.
Left Handed Giant overlooking the Floating Harbour adorned for Bristol Light Festival
Average visitor spending nearly doubled to £46.69, driven by a 118 per cent rise in shopping expenditure and increased spending on food, drink, and accommodation.
The festival’s success was further highlighted by over half of visitors stating they would not have visited Bristol without it, underscoring its importance for local businesses.
The fifth edition of the Bristol Light Festival also included a world premiere celebrating Bristol’s Drum & Bass scene, Anthems Volume One.
Our Beating Heart by Vertigo taking part in the Bristol Light Festival
Steve Bluff, director of Redcliffe & Temple BID, added: “This festival demonstrates how cultural events can directly benefit our local economy, encouraging people to explore different areas of the city and increasing trade for businesses. The continued growth in visitor spend proves just how valuable events like this are for Bristol’s economic resilience.”
Katherine Jewkes, creative director of the Bristol Light Festival, commented: “This year’s festival has been hugely successful in once again bringing people together to experience art in an accessible and engaging way. Seeing the city come alive at night, filled with colour, light, and joy, is what makes this event so unique.
“The response from visitors has been overwhelmingly positive, and it’s incredibly rewarding to know that the festival not only brightens the winter months but also generates meaningful economic benefits for Bristol’s businesses. Knowing that our work both lifts spirits and drives real impact for the local economy makes it even more special.”
Some 200,000 visitors attended Bristol Light Festival during the last stretch of Bristol Light Festival
Information about the 2026 edition of the festival will be announced soon. For more information, visit www.bristollightfestival.org
All photos: SHOTAWAY
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