Illuminate

17th – 20th & 24th -27th Feb 2022

Please note: Due to extreme weather conditions forecast for Sunday 20th February, Illuminate will not go ahead on 20th February.

Join us this February as the historic Walled City of Derry - Londonderry comes to life through a magical mix of lights, colour and sound as we 'Illuminate' Derry.

'Illuminate' will run over two weekends, 17th - 20th and 24th – 27th February, from 6pm - 9pm, and will shine a light on the events that have shaped the unique story of Derry, a city that has been forged through a millennium of adventure, endurance, imagination and endeavour.

Take a journey through time and discover the secrets of the Walled City as you embark on a magical illuminated trail telling the story of a legendary place that will capture both your heart and your imagination.

From its origins as an ancient settlement to today's vibrant cultural hub, our story will be brought to life over eight days of stunning installations that will light up some of the City's most iconic sites, using the latest digital technology, projection, sound and animation to weave a compelling tale of tragedy and triumph.

View the beautiful Guildhall, the City's historic walls, St Columb's Cathedral, Castle Gate and St Columb's Hall as you've never seen them before, as they provide the canvas for this illuminating tale.

Illuminate offers the chance to meet some of the heroes and villains whose remarkable stories have changed the course of history. Immerse yourself in the landmark events that have made this place so special, from the arrival of the monastic legend Colmcille to the Siege of Derry, the surrender of the Battle of the Atlantic, to the surge of the Civil Rights movement and the pathway to peace. Learn how the Walled City has been reunified, restored and reimagined, told through performance, music and theatre.

The festival also invites you to share in this former City of Culture's renowned passion for music and the arts with a series of intimate live music gigs reflecting the theme of light, with artists such as Kila, Neil Cowley, ROE and The Henry Girls.

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Unlock the Walled City

Illuminate Music

As part of the Illuminate Festival, a series of gigs will take place in some of Derry's most intimate settings including The Guildhall, St Augustine's, Echo Echo and CCA. With performances from Kila, Neil Cowley, The Henry Girls ( The Boswell Sisters Big Band), Ciaran Lavery, Aoife Scott, ROE, Glen Rosborough, Maria Kelly and many more.
Live Projection Shows

The 1.5km route can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace as you make your way through the 400 year old Walled City. Experience a trail of 6 iconic locations which will become spectacular pieces of art, using a mix of audio-visual, digital media and outdoor projection to create a memorable experience for all the family.
Sound and Light Trail

Enjoy Illuminate Derry's Sound and Light trail, where you’ll be able to take a step back in time and discover the story of Derry – Londonderry as you visit 11 stops along the trail.
Illuminate Offers

Visiting the city for Illuminate - then take advantage of our great value hotel offers, starting at just £45pps.
Illuminate Map

Find out what's on and where during the Illuminate Festival. Check out our map here to start planning your trip today.
Illuminate Traffic and Travel

Traffic restrictions will be in place in some areas of Derry's City Centre over the coming days as the Illuminate Festival lights up the city with multi-media installations, music and performance across some of the city's most iconic sites.
Access and Inclusion Illuminate
Illuminate Itinerary Ideas

We’re brightening up February with the Illuminate Festival and we can’t wait to welcome you to our city to enjoy an eclectic mix of sound, light and music.