As the nights draw in, Oxford will be illuminated by shimmering hand-made lanterns, flashing LED displays, sparkling street decorations, and colourful window art, marking the start of the countdown to Christmas. The festival aims to bring communities and local residents together for the festive season.
Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council, highlighted the event's role in fostering community spirit. "Oxford’s Christmas Light Festival brings our communities and local residents together as we head into the festive season," she stated. "From lantern parades and light trails to music, crafts and community celebrations, there is something for everyone to enjoy, wherever you are in the city."
Councillor Brown also praised the creativity and enthusiasm behind the festival, thanking residents, community groups, cultural organisations, and businesses involved. She encouraged participation in the festival's activities, both during the main weekend and in preparation events.
Opportunities to get involved are spread across the city. IF Oxford is offering webinars for 'Glow Your Own', guiding participants in building programmable LED displays, with additional resources available on the festival website for making simple lanterns. Community events include a winter wonderland of light and music at The Venue in Cowley, and a day of free activities at Pegasus Theatre in East Oxford, featuring shadow puppet-making workshops and interactive performances.
The Rose Hill light activities and parade will follow the theme of 'Fantastic Fiction', celebrating reading and storytelling with workshops to create lanterns for an evening parade. The Leys neighbourhood will be decorated by residents to foster joy and connection, while the North Wall Arts Centre will host a light trail in Cutteslowe Park with music, theatre, and craft activities.
In the city centre, the traditional Victorian Market in Broad Street will offer food, drink, decorations, gifts, and street entertainment. The Museum of Oxford will feature a new gallery trail and a craft session for making Christmas Light Lanterns. The DSO Singing and Signing Choir will perform festive tunes in Bonn Square, and the Oxford Bus Company's Christmas Light Bus will tour neighbourhoods.
A full programme of events and updates can be found on the festival website at www.oxlightfest.com.
