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We Shine Portsmouth is back for 2024 - transforming the city into a dazzling gallery of illuminated art.

From Thursday 21 to Saturday 23 November, Portsmouth will be aglow with light installations by both local and international artists for three nights of free art and interactive experiences.

The activities will be centred around three main hubs: St Mary’s Church, Victoria Park and Hilsea Lido. Visitors are invited to wrap up warm and discover mesmerizing light displays and interactive installations - suitable for the whole family.

Among the must-see attractions is St. Mary’s Church, returning as a central hub with a brand-new, specially curated projection named ‘Once a Sea’, created by renowned local light artists Heinrich & Palmer. This stunning projection aims to imaginatively explore the architecture of St Mary’s from the perspective of deep, geological time. Using a fusion of archival imagery, time-lapse photography, high-speed film, microscopy, photogrammetry and 3D laser scans of St Mary’s Church, ‘Once a Sea’ takes viewers on an infinitesimal journey through time and space.

Visitors can also explore more installations in the churchyard, and even get hands on with creative activities.

On Friday evening the community spirit will come alive at Fratton Together’s Lantern Parade, with members of the local community showcasing their beautiful lanterns. The event culminates in a vibrant procession through the churchyard, accompanied by the pulsating beats of the Batala drummers.

Another highlight is the opportunity to rediscover Victoria Park after dark. Typically closed in the evening, Victoria Park will be opened by We Shine until 9pm for a unique experience showing a magical new perspective on the space. The internationally acclaimed light artists Amigo & Amigo from Sydney, Australia will present their latest interactive work, 'Piano Walk', inviting visitors to step onto an oversized piano and join a collaborative performance that brings the installation to life.

Hilsea Lido will debut as a new festival hub this year, featuring an awe-inspiring projection by the amazing Limbic Cinema. Displayed on a giant 25-metre water screen over the moat near the Lido, this stunning installation explores the surreal world of artificial reefs across the planet - it's not to be missed. This immersive experience will be complemented by a range of light installations and projects co-created with local community groups.

Beyond these main locations, the festival will feature a variety of creative events throughout the city, with plenty of opportunities for visitors to dance, doodle, hula-hoop, and shop. In addition, Portsmouth City Council is hosting three fantastic Christmas Lights Switch-On events the same weekend! Guaranteed to get you into the festive spirit, the events will take place at Southsea (21 November), Cosham (22 November) and Commercial Road (23 November).

We Create Market

Alongside the amazing art and light installations, the We Create Market will be back at Pitt Street Skatepark. Brimming with local makers, designers and artists, it's the perfect place to shop local and get some exceptional handcrafted Christmas gifts.

This year the market will house a brand-new area, ‘Young Creates.’ In partnership with HSDC and the City of Portsmouth College, Portsmouth Creates has offered a new zone dedicated to supporting young people at the start of their creative journeys and an opportunity for visitors to purchase their unique creations.

We Create Market opening hours:
Friday 22: 5pm – 9pm
Saturday 23: 12pm – 9pm
Sunday 24: 12pm – 5pm