Bristol Light Festival has delivered a record-breaking boost to the city’s economy, according to the organisers of the annual event.
More than 200,000 people visited Bristol to see the immersive and interactive light installations between January 31 and February 9, with visitor spending surging to £9.4m - an increase of 30% on last year.
More than £1m was generated by overnight visitors staying in local accommodation, a report has found, while shopping expenditure rose 118% year-on-year, bringing total direct spending in the city to £10.4m.
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More than 50% of visitors surveyed said they would not have dined out or shopped in Bristol without the festival, which is now in its fifth year.
This year’s highlights included a celebration of Bristol’s drum and bass scene; a new artwork by local artists Air Giants; and the return of the fan-favourite 'Swing Song'.
Vicky Lee, Director of Bristol City Centre Business Improvement District- (BID), said: “Bristol Light Festival has firmly established itself as a powerful economic driver for the city. Visitors are spending more time here, supporting local businesses and experiencing everything Bristol has to offer.
"The surge in visitor spending, longer dwell times and increase in overnight stays all highlight the festival’s immense value. It’s fantastic to see this event providing such a crucial boost at a time when businesses need it most.”
Steve Bluff, director of Redcliffe & Temple BID, said the festival demonstrated how cultural events directly benefitted Bristol's local economy and increased trade for businesses.
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"The continued growth in visitor spend proves just how valuable events like this are for Bristol’s economic resilience," he said.
Katherine Jewkes, creative director of Bristol Light Festival, added: “This year’s festival has been hugely successful in once again bringing people together to experience art in an accessible and engaging way.
"Seeing the city come alive at night, filled with colour, light and joy, is what makes this event so unique. The response from visitors has been overwhelmingly positive and it’s incredibly rewarding to know that the festival not only brightens the winter months but also generates meaningful economic benefits for Bristol’s businesses. Knowing that our work both lifts spirits and drives real impact for the local economy makes it even more special.”
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