Light Up Lancaster in the Castle

The environment

For the third year running, environmental data was recorded, including audience travel data, artist and supplier travel, accommodation, materials and environmental planning information, and the power output of the event to create a carbon footprint calculation based on the 2023 benchmark. People were asked about their main mode of transport to Light up Lancaster. 46% travelled by car and 37% were on foot, (down from 46% in 2024). However, this year more people travelled on public transport, which will reduce the environmental impact of the event. 14% travelled by bus (up from 9% in 2024) and 5% by train (up from 3%).

The local economy

Light Up Lancaster generated a significant investment in the local economy.

Volunteering, jobs & education

Our event attracted more than 100 volunteers

Arts, culture & heritage

The event in Lancaster Castle was the magnet that helped delver the most successful Light Up Lancaster ever. More than 91,000 people attended across three nights and were treated to light art and cultural activities of the highest quality. This free event is now a national leader in creating and delivering exceptional art which has heart as much as spectacle. Veil in Lancaster Castle exemplified the highes quality of cultural experiences for people in Lancashire as nearly 90% of the audience came from within the county. The independent evaluation revealed: 95% of respondents in 2025 agreed that events such as Light up Lancaster are a worthwhile use of public money. 84% agreed strongly – up from 79% in 2024. 89% of respondents agreed that the event made them feel proud of Lancaster and 78% agreed with this strongly, the same as last year. 91% of respondents agreed that the event was high quality. 75% agreed strongly, similar to 77% in 2024. For people living outside of the city, just over half (56%) said the event made them want to return to Lancaster for a day trip and 30% said the event made them want to return for an overnight stay. Over three quarters of respondents (77%) said they would like to learn more about the history of Lancaster through the festival in future.

Activity, health and leisure

Our event can only be experienced by walking the route of Light Up Lancaster. We also ensure that all of the artworks are as accessible as possible and we wun two BSL guided tours.