The three day Rivington Festival of Light takes place on 26, 27 and 28 October 2023 (half term holidays). It brings joy and sparkle to families in the region at a much more affordable price than other light shows. Be astounded by the light show and lasers dancing across the lake. Gaze in wonder at the illuminated woodlands and buildings. Be entertained by the exhilarating performances. And gasp in awe at our volunteer-designed and created sculpture and lantern trail. Our dedicated volunteers put in 100's of hours of work to deliver this event each year, adding more and more artworks to the trail. Young and old get involved - either in the crafting, the site preparation or running the event - for your delight! Your donations will be used to cover the costs of the event, helping us to keep the ticket prices low for everyone's enjoyment. To help make the event even more accessible, we will give 150 tickets away. 120 to families, and 30 to care-leavers.

What we'll deliver:

• A Three Day Festival Of Light
• Lasers, lights, woodland wonders, a magical light trail, entertainers
• 30 sets of 4 tickets to be won in the draw
• 30 tickets to be given away to local care-leavers

Why it's a great idea:

1. A light festival for the Northwest that is relatively affordable to families. 2. It's Fun! It brings great joy to all who visit - awestruck by the beauty of the lanterns, lasers and lights 3. Funds raised are used to restore the gardens - managing the woodlands, promoting the environment and biodiversity, and making the parkland safe and accessible, for free, to all. Ensuring local people have access to green spaces. 3. It promotes Rivington, it's heritage and getting out in nature. 4. The volunteers get out in nature, communicate with the public, learn to build willow lanterns and paint flags. 5. Volunteering is a lifeline to many. It gives a purpose and promotes mental well being. At Rivington you can find friendships, laughter, fitness, support and kindness. Over 80 volunteers worked together to deliver the 2022 Festival of Light - an incredible event that entertained 4200 over the three nights.

Steps to get it done:

• Tickets go on sale to the public
• Festival layout and planning
• Ordering all the professional services/providers (toilets, security etc.)
• Creating/decorating the artworks
• Festival ground preparations and safety
• Installation and set up
• Volunteer scheduling
• Festival breakdown

The Festival of Light puts Rivington and Lancashire on the map. Its natural, wild, open setting, the woodlands lit up beautifully, the handmade (amateur) lanterns - handcrafted, "organic" not commercial or industrial - is just glorious. It's charming. There are sculptures made by children and adults. Everyone pitches in and the results are SPECTACULAR! The audience love it, and we are told it's much better and has more character than other light trails in the North West. You can get involved - all are welcome to help deliver this AMAZING community event!