• Swindon & Wiltshire Culture
• Thursday March 20 2025
• Author Name: Peter Davison

Economic impact of Bristol Light Festival revealed in new report

This year’s annual Bristol Light Festival delivered a record-breaking £11 million boost to the city’s economy, according to organisers.

Bristol City Centre BID announced today that visitor spending soared to £9.4 million – an increase of 30 per cent on last year.

Over 200,000 people visited the city between Friday, January 31 and Sunday, February 9 spending, on average, £46.69 – double 2024’s figure of £26.20.

And during a traditionally subdued period for retailers, shopping expenditure saw an increase of 118 per cent.

Spending on food and drink also saw significant growth. More than half of the visitors surveyed said they would not have dined out or shopped in Bristol without the festival.

And spending on accommodation also increased, with over £1 million generated by overnight visitors.

The fifth Bristol Light Festival offered immersive, interactive and vibrant light installations across the city centre.

Vicky Lee, director of Bristol City Centre 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.”

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.”

Organisers promised the event would return in 2026.

Read Business Biscuit’s report of the 2025 Bristol Light Festival here.