Bringing light, art, and community together.
Light Up Fest is a vibrant, community-driven celebration by Autin Dance Theatre in partnership with Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), featuring awe-inspiring performances, interactive installations, and large-scale processions. Bringing light, movement, and creativity to public spaces, the festival invites audiences to explore themes of connection, resilience, and hope. Light Up Fest is where art meets community, transforming ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences.
View The Easy Read Guide
SOLD OUT!
Important information: Light Up Fest event in Cannon Hill Park is now fully sold out and spectator tickets are no longer available.
Please do not turn up without a ticket. The event capacity is restricted to meet safety requirements and to ensure a comfortable experience for everyone.
If you would like to register your interest for next year, please email hello@autindt.co.uk for future opportunities.
Last slots available for:
Make Your Own Lantern at MAC and Join the Parade
from 4.30pm and sets off at 5.15pm, and participants are welcome to stay a little longer if needed to finish their lantern.
Project’s Impact
Social, Cultural, and Artistic Outcomes
– Building stronger community connections through shared creative experiences
– Celebrating diversity and inclusivity in the arts
– Inspiring audiences to see public spaces in a new light—literally and metaphorically.
“Light Up Fest has transformed Birmingham’s urban spaces into hubs of artistic expression, fostering a sense of pride and belonging among participants while sparking curiosity and delight in audiences.”
How Participants Can Engage
– Call for volunteers to help with lantern-making workshops or parade logistics.
– Open invitations for schools, community groups, or local artists to participate.
– Encourage families to join interactive sessions and attend Lantern Procession performances.
We’re inviting local schools and community groups to join us in creating illuminated art for the festival parade! No prior experience needed—just bring your creativity!
We’re inviting local schools and community groups to join us in creating illuminated art for the festival parade! No prior experience needed—just bring your creativity!
Join us again for our 2nd edition of Light Up Fest in 2026 (Saturday 21 February 2026)—a celebration of light, movement, and community! Reserve your spot now and be part of the magic, email us at hello@autindt.co.uk
Join us again for our 2nd edition of Light Up Fest in 2026 (to be confirmed)—a celebration of light, movement, and community! Reserve your spot now and be part of the magic, email us at hello@autindt.co.uk
Show Credits
Artistic Director:
Johnny Autin
Learning and Participation Manager:
Natasha Boyes
Workshop Leaders:
Natasha Boyes, Anghara Jones, Hannah Woodlife, Tori Drew & Freya Davis
BSL Interpreter: Olivia Whitter
Olivia Whitter
Special Notes:
Accessibility: This is BSL interpreted performance
Senior Producer:
Annalise McIntyre
Project Coordinator:
Kirsten Tranter
Performing acts:
Sign Spinning UK, False Feet Stilts, Ashbourne Festival and some special appearances
Music:
Birmingham Opera Company
Participating Organisations and Schools:
Loop Learning, West Midlands Creation Centre, Chandos School, Colmore Junior School, BHCATS, Lift montgomery Primary School, Autistic Girls Network, Uffculme School & Micro Rainbow
Our Sponsors & Supporters
Created by Autin Dance Theatre in partnership with Midlands Arts Centre and kindly sponsored by Eversheds Sutherland, The Noel Sweeney Foundation and The Blakemore Foundation 💫
Upcoming Tour Dates
Use the filter to select Light Up Fest