River of Light 2026 - 'Together'


The ninth edition of River of Light returns from 23 October - 1 November from 5pm-9pm.


Delivered by Culture Liverpool, the theme of the festival this year is, ‘Together’, with all installations focusing on how light brings people closer in a joyful way.
 

All 13 artworks have been announced as part for the FREE trail which is taking over Liverpool City Centre this autumn! Discover them all below and start planning your visit to Liverpool! 

 

A banner for River of Light on a pruple background with pink circles. It says River of Light in white text.

River of Light Blogs

A large light installation in the shape of a cloud with sheep on it. Oct 14
  • 4 minute read

River of Light is back this October, giving families a free activity in Liverpool city centre this half term. This outdoor light trail runs from 23 October to 1 November 2026, with illuminated artworks lighting up the city every evening from 5pm to 9pm. But why stop at the lights? With…

Two large characters glowing white clinging onto pillars at Liverpool Town Hall in the dark. Oct 14
  • 3 minute read

River of Light returns from 23 October to 1 November bringing 13 large-scale light installations to Liverpool city centre. This year’s theme, Together, celebrates the joy of connection and how light can bring people closer. Make a date of it, gather your favourite people and explore the city…

Night-time view of Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock, with illuminated red-brick warehouse buildings reflected in the calm water. Lights from restaurants and waterfront businesses glow along the dockside, while boats are moored at the quayside and Liverpool Cathedral is visible in the distance against the dark evening sky. Oct 13
River of Light

River of Light at the Royal Albert Dock

  • 8 minute read

River of Light returns to Liverpool from 23 October to 1 November with 13 brand new installations to explore! River of Light returns to Liverpool from 23 October to 1 November, bringing 13 spectacular light installations to locations across the city centre. This year, Royal Albert Dock is…

Cunard Building, the former headquarters of White Star Line in Liverpool, viewed from the waterfront. The historic stone building stands among the city’s Three Graces, with trees and public space in the foreground beneath a bright blue sky. Oct 15
  • 1 minute read

A special market will take place in Cunard Building during this year’s River of Light. Following its hugely successful three-night run last year, for 2026 it has been extended to eight nights, operating from 4pm - 9pm daily from Friday 23 October - Friday 30 October. There will be around…

Four logos in a row for Liverpool City Council. Culture Liverpool, Liverpool Business Improvement District and Arts Council England.