About the Festival
This Festival of Lights is annually held at the Metropolitan Borough of Kirklees in West Yorkshire, England. First debuted in 2004, it becomes a traditional event as more and more spectators are welcomed each year, anticipating jam-packed events varying from music, dance, theatre, arts, food and drinks market, and other fun activities.
This Festival of Lights showcases spectacular light shows presented in dynamic themes with a twist of fun shows that come in unexpected flavors every year. Of course, people’s favorite is the fireworks display as the finale show of the festival.
Festival Dates
Spectators are in full excitement throughout the months of the year until December comes, which is the time of the Festival of Lights.
Here are the other festival events in Huddersfield:
Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival — As the name implies, it is a music festival held yearly in Huddersfield. Began in 1978, it has featured avant-garde music from Louis Andriessen, Karlheinz Stockhausen, and other award-winning composers.
Huddersfield Christmas Lights Switch On – Christmas season in Huddersfield usually kicks off on November as the lights switch on takes place in St. George’s Square. This is a perfect event for families and friends to enjoy blinking Christmas lights and dazzling light exhibits.
For 2025, organizers are yet to announce the details about the dates, so stay tuned or visit the festival’s official website for the latest updates.
Where It’s Located and How to Get There
The Festival of Lights is an outdoor festival that usually can be found around the town center area of Huddersfield in various locations. Over the years, it is held at St George’s Huddersfield street.
Meanwhile, if you are outside Huddersfield, you might want to check out this travel route that is near the main festival locations if you’re planning to visit there:
By Air — Search for flights that will land you off to Leeds Bradford Airport that is in West Yorkshire also since it’s the nearest airport going to Huddersfield, with a travel time of about 47 minutes. You can also opt for Manchester Airport, with a travel time of only 49 minutes, or Liverpool John Lennon Airport for 1 hour and 8 minutes to get you to Huddersfield.
By Bus — If you are from Brighouse Bus Station and you’re going to Huddersfield, your travel will take 24 minutes. While if you happen to be in West Vale, it will be around 32 minutes. Other bus points going to Huddersfield that will take you for more or less 1 hour travel time are The Barum Top Inn (Wetherspoon), Halifax, Heckmondwike, Cleckheaton Bus Station, Dewsbury Bus Station, Batley Bus Station, IKEA, Oakwell Industrial Park, and Clayton Village.
You can also find bus stations in St. George’s Square, Market Street, Westgate, and John William Street, with a distance of a 2–5-minute walk.
If you’re in United Kingdom, you might want to check out these other lights festivals as well:
Festival Hours
Happening each year, the festival dates change every year, though. Commonly, it operates as a three-day event, mostly on Friday to Sunday during night hours. Nevertheless, all the celebrations are always well anticipated, ending with a fantastic fireworks bang!
Cost to Visit the Festival
Going to the Huddersfield Festival of Lights, you can surely witness live street shows, extra-talented performers, one-of-a-kind light and firework displays, and a lot more. Yes, it’s truly a grandiose event! But you know what? You don’t have to worry about the cost because you can watch it all for free. Yes, you are reading it right! IT’S FREE!
Weather and What to Wear
Want to have some break from your warm-weather travels? Then, this event is perfect for you because December is a legit winter season for Huddersfield.
You better prepare your best winter OOTDs and be ready to get warmed by festive people there! Usually, their December month has an average temperature of 1.8 and 5.9 degrees Celsius. Expect snowfalls for sure!
Where to Sleep – Hotels nearby the festival of lights
Want to wander long in Huddersfield but wondering where to stay? Check out these most reviewed by travelers and budget-friendly hotels around the town:
The Venue Huddersfield
Situated in Storthes Hall Lane, it offers a 24-hour front desk service, complimentary continental breakfast, free wifi, and free parking. The approximate cost of a room is $38 per night, but prices may vary so it’s best to inquire with the hotel’s official website. It is adjacent to several town destinations like the Woodsome Hall Golf Club and Huddersfield Art Gallery.
Townhouse No 12
Located at 12 Cambridge Rd, it only has an approximate cost of $50 per night. It is also a few minutes’ walk away from Galpharm Stadium. University of Huddersfield and Huddersfield Library are also around the place.
Cambridge Hotel
This is one of the most popular hotels in Huddersfield, located along 4 Clare Hill. It offers free WIFI, free parking and a casual restaurant/bar. A room costs around $76 per night, but prices may vary so visiting the hotel’s official website for more details is recommended.
Bagden Hall Hotel
Found in Wakefield Rd, Denby Dale, Scissett, it is a 3-star hotel that caters to both fine dining and casual restaurants serving as a premier venue for several occasions like weddings, conferences, and other corporate events. Getting a room will cost you about $94 per night, however, prices may vary so it’s best to visit the hotel’s official website for up-to-date information.
What to Eat
I’m sure it’s on your number one checklist to try different foods, especially your favorite ones in locally made flavors, in your every travel destination. Worry no more because exciting food and drinks are already coming your way as you visit Huddersfield! Here are some top food places that you should include in your checklist:
Food Corner
Situated at Westbourne Road, Marsh, this place is so far the highest-rated on several food review websites. Both its food and people are well complimented, receiving impressive feedbacks from its customers.
Bengal Aroma
Located at 95-97 Northgate, Huddersfield, it is known for its delicious curries, becoming an escape hub for curry lovers out there. Well, you surely won’t argue when I say it has earned a 4.7 rating from its customers’ reviews.
Gurkha Sizzlers
This place at 4AA Henry Street is praised not just for its excellent food but also for its cleanliness, perfect for some de-stressing through eating, I guess!
Salira Square Pizza
Pizza lovers, here’s a perfect treat for you! Based at 35 Westbourne Road, Marsh, Salira Square Pizza is known for its mouthwatering and extra delicious pizzas and Shawarma Kebab. Grab your best food buddies now!
Want to try some locally made foods? You can see them right before your eyes during Huddersfield Food and Drink Festival held annually as part of its Annual Calendar of Events.
More Things to Do in the Area
Apart from the Huddersfield Festival of Lights, the beautiful town in the UK has other things to offer for those who like some real adventure.
Castle Hill
Castles are not only in a fairytale. They really do exist. In fact, Huddersfield has Castle Hill, where a number of travelers flock. Like other landmarks, Castle Hill has a long history to tell. Two thousand years ago, the place was built as an Iron Age hill fort with ramparts and ditches. Then, a castle was constructed in the Middle Ages. But there is no more castle today. It only has a tower established in 1897 and has become a place for recreation. More than the history, the scenery is superb.
Kirklees Light Railway
Go aboard and enjoy the scenic views around Huddersfield town! It became the main favorite pastime activity for travelers as it is undoubtedly a good deal if you want to see the town’s most beautiful spots. Ideal for a solo trip as well that you can enjoy in any weather. Of course, don’t forget your camera!
Yorkshire Sculpture Park
It’s a highly recommended spot for art enthusiasts if you’re in Huddersfield. It is internationally renowned as a “gallery without walls.” Soothe your eyes with various unique sculptures and modern arts spread out around the parkland area. You can enjoy some good food in nearby restaurants and a food park while just watching the majestic art view. And of course, you will definitely look forward to it more because it’s a free attraction. Another cut for your budget but an incredible addition to your Huddersfield experience!
Colne Valley Museum
Want to travel back in time? If yes, Colne Walley Museum’s door is open for you. When you enter there, you will get some feels on the weaver’s life back in the 1850s as you’ll get to see some of their activities in their time like the handloom chamber, clog maker’s workshop, and a spinning room. The place is more fulfilling if you’re traveling with kids. Dress up in a period clothing to add some fun!
FAQ
1. What parking options are available during the Huddersfield Festival of Lights?
Answer: Huddersfield town centre provides several public car parks that visitors can use. Given the event’s popularity, it’s advisable to arrive early. Some car parks might also offer special event rates during the festival.
2. Is smoking allowed at the Huddersfield Festival of Lights?
Answer: While the outdoor nature of the festival means smoking isn’t strictly prohibited everywhere, there will be designated smoking areas. It’s important to be considerate and avoid smoking near families and children, as well as near any installations that may be sensitive to smoke or open flames.
3. Can I bring my pets to the Festival of Lights?
Answer: Generally, pets are welcome at the outdoor sections of the Festival of Lights. However, they must be kept on a leash, and owners are responsible for their behavior and any mess they might make.
4. Are there specific start and end times for the Festival of Lights?
Answer: Yes, the festival typically has set start and end times for each day. For precise timings, it’s best to check the official Huddersfield Festival of Lights website or promotional materials.
5. Will there be food and drink vendors during the festival?
Answer: Absolutely! The festival usually features various food and beverage stalls, providing a mix of local delicacies and popular snacks and drinks.
6. Is the festival area wheelchair accessible?
Answer: The majority of Huddersfield town centre, where the festival takes place, is wheelchair accessible. However, given the historic nature of some areas, certain spots might be more challenging to navigate.
7. Can I take photographs and videos during the festival?
Answer: Visitors are encouraged to capture their memories of the Huddersfield Festival of Lights. However, for any professional or commercial photography, prior permission might be needed from the event organizers.
8. Are there any special performances or attractions this year?
Answer: The festival often includes live performances, workshops, and other interactive events in addition to the light displays. For a detailed schedule and list of attractions, refer to the festival’s official website or event brochures.
Sources:
https://examinerlive.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/huddersfield-christmas-lights-switch-2022-25529590
