Festival Information
North East
Overview
Lumiere is the UK’s leading light art biennial, transforming the city of Durham into an open-air gallery of illuminated artworks and installations. For three nights, streets, squares, riverbanks, and landmarks are reimagined through large-scale projection, sculpture, and interactive light pieces created by local and international artists. The programme blends artistic ambition with public accessibility, bringing thousands of visitors into shared civic spaces after dark.
Produced by arts organisation Artichoke and commissioned by Durham County Council, Lumiere has been part of the North East’s cultural calendar since 2009. The festival is free to attend, with peak‑time ticketing in central areas used to help manage crowds and ensure a safe, welcoming experience for all.
Exhibition Programme
View the
official Programme here.
Note: Line-ups can evolve/change closer to the event — check back regularly to stay up to date.
Location
Lumiere Festival takes place at: Durham City Centre, Durham, DH1 3EH.
Travel Info
See the official Plan Your Visit page for travel tips and advice on navigating Durham during the event.
Festival Venue
There is no single enclosed venue for Lumiere — artworks are spread across Durham’s cityscape. Expect cobbled streets, riverside paths, and city viewpoints. The setting includes sloped areas and bridges, so comfortable footwear is recommended. See the Accommodation Section for local stay options and the Accessibility Section for terrain and access guidance.
Tickets
Basic Price Range: Free
Ticket Release Dates:
- Durham County Residents: Priority booking opens at 10:00 on Tuesday 30 September 2025.
- General Public: Tickets available from 10:00 on Wednesday 1 October 2025.
Advance registration is recommended for a smoother booking experience when tickets go live.
Tickets to Lumiere Festival can be purchased via the festival's official Website.
Reserve Tickets This link opens in a new tabOptions include:
- General Admission: No ticket is required to attend the festival outside of peak hours.
- Free Time-Slot Tickets: Required for accessing central Durham installations between 16:30 and 19:30.
- Talks & Special Events: Some venues may require separate (free) ticket bookings — see the programme for details.
Some ticket info:
- Digital Tickets: All tickets are issued as PDFs — downloadable from the booking confirmation email or page.
- Access Support: If you don’t have access to a computer or smartphone, tickets can be booked and printed at a local library.
- Barrier Entrances: Ticketed access points include Elvet Bridge, Claypath, and Framwellgate Bridge. Note: Market Place is not accessible via Elvet Bridge entrance.
Things to Bring & Leave at Home
- What to bring: Warm, waterproof layers, sensible walking shoes, and your PDF ticket (printed or on a fully charged smartphone).
- What to leave behind: Large bags over A4 size, umbrellas, buggies, and non-assistance pets. Guide dogs are welcome.
- Prohibited items: Offensive weapons, illegal drugs, fireworks, flyers, drones, scooters, skateboards, handcarts, and bicycles are not allowed on the festival route.
For accessibility support or booking adjustments, see the Accessibility section or contact the Lumiere team directly.
Accommodation
Lumiere Festival is not a camping festival. Visitors should arrange their own accommodation in or around Durham City.
Nearby Options Include:
- Hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs in Durham city centre
- Self-catering apartments and serviced rentals
- Budget and student-style accommodation available seasonally
Where to Book:
For listings, availability, and booking support, visit This Is Durham, the official local accommodation guide.
Packing Checklist:
Ensure you're fully prepared for your festival adventure with our Essential Packing Checklist.
Accessibility
Lumiere Festival is committed to being as accessible and inclusive as possible. The “Access” info on their Plan Your Visit page includes details of accessible routes, parking, toilets, sensory spaces, and volunteer assistance. If you have specific needs, contact access@artichoke.uk.com before the event.
Facilities & Services Include:
- Accessible parking via Park & Ride sites, and Blue Badge parking bays in multi‑storey and off‑street car parks. All subject to availability. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
- Accessible toilets and Changing Places facilities in Durham City and Bishop Auckland.
- Volunteers stationed along routes to assist visitors with mobility needs; alternative routes where primary routes are steep/cobbled.
- Sensory information available via maps showing quieter routes, areas of high footfall, or narrow/steep paths.
- Quiet Room / calm space (St Nics church, Market Place) for visitors needing a break from sensory stimulation.
Some streets are steep, cobbled, or have uneven surfaces. Some routes are not suitable for wheelchairs, buggies, or those with reduced mobility — check the route maps on the official site.
