The River of Light illuminated trail in Liverpool will open an extra hour on Thursday, Friday and Saturday after organisers reported an "incredible response" to this year's event. Visit Liverpool announced the change, confirming the installations will now run from 4pm to 9pm instead of the original 5pm to 9pm.
Extended hours announced
The annual free event features 13 illuminated artworks spread across Liverpool city centre and the waterfront, giving visitors the chance to explore the installations after dark. Announcing the extension, Visit Liverpool said: "Due to the incredible response to this year's River of Light, we're giving you even more time to explore!"
"The trail will now be open from 4pm–9pm (previously 5pm–9pm) on Thursday, Friday and Saturday this week, giving visitors an extra hour to discover the spectacular installations across Liverpool's waterfront and city centre. More time to wander, more time to snap photos, and more time to enjoy the magic of River Of Light!"
Event details and theme
This year's event is inspired by the theme of 'Together' and includes installations at Williamson Square, St Paul's Square, the Pier Head, Exchange Flags, Royal Albert Dock and Liverpool ONE. Visitors can see a range of artworks, from a Flower Power disco to inflatable sheep, playful puppets and glowing stars.
The extension follows the event being forced to suspend its opening after three nights of cancellations due to bad weather. River of Light was originally due to begin on Friday, October 23, but the opening was postponed as storms brought difficult conditions to Merseyside. Further cancellations followed over the weekend, with yellow weather warnings in place for strong winds and rain.
Return and Quiet Hour
The trail eventually returned on Monday, October 26, with Visit Liverpool confirming the installations would light up the city again from 5pm. Organisers have also confirmed the planned Quiet Hour session on Sunday, November 1, will go ahead as scheduled from 4pm to 5pm.
Visit Liverpool added: "The original Quiet Hour session on Sunday November 1 will still take place from 4pm to 5pm where installations will be shown in a calmer environment with reduced sound and light where possible."
