Lumiere to illuminate Durham again next year

The stunning arts event, in which parts of the city are transformed through light installations, will be staged for the fifth time between Thursday, November 16 and Sunday, November 19, it was announced this evening.

Lumiere is produced by arts charity Artichoke and commissioned by Durham County Council, with support from the Arts Council England and commercial sponsors.

Last year, it attracted an estimated 20,000 visitors to the city and was worth almost £10million to the North East economy.

Tonight’s announcement was followed by the unveiling of the Lightbench, two illuminated benches by artist Bernd Spiecker, which featured in 2015 and have now been permanently installed in the Banks Group’s new riverside development.

“Coming back to Durham to start the planning for Lumiere always feels like coming home,” said Artichoke director Helen Marriage.

“This amazing free event has developed its worldwide reputation only because local and regional businesses, organisations and individuals recognise its value and contribute to make it happen. The festival is made with and for its community.”

County Council leader Coun Simon Henig said: “We are tremendously proud Durham is the birthplace of Lumiere and of our association with such a world-class event.”

Banks Group’s Mark Dowdall added: “We aim to support projects that make a lasting contribution to the life of people in the communities that host our developments.”