York Colour and Light
Brightening The Winter in York
Updated on 16th January 2026
York Colour and Light: Brightening The Winter in York.
From Wednesday 4th to Sunday 22nd February 2026, the much-anticipated Colour & Light returns—and this year, it’s bigger, bolder, and more ambitious than ever before.
For three weeks, the darkness of winter will be pushed aside by a spectacular display of digital artistry, transforming two of the city's most iconic landmarks into a massive, shimmering canvas. This years theme of York's legendary characters and hidden histories, will see Clifford's Tower and York Castle Museum lit up in spectacular fashion. Think rogues, villains and scoundrels of the highest order.
Both York Castle Museum and Clifford’s Tower will be illuminated simultaneously. This coordinated, fully choreographed projection show will turn the entire area into an immersive outdoor cinema, celebrating York’s rich heritage and its status as the UK’s only UNESCO City of Media Arts.
What to Expect at York Colour and Light 2026
Created by the talented team at Double Take Projections in partnership with York BID, York Museums Trust, and English Heritage, the 2026 show explores "lesser-known" chapters of York’s history.
- ContinuousLoop: The show lasts approximately 10 minutes and runs on a continuous loop every night.
- Historic Characters: Watch as figures from York's past are brought to life through light, sound, and animation.
- Family Friendly: The visuals are designed to captivate visitors of all ages, making it a perfect outing for the February half-term.
Visitor Information: Everything You Need to Know
The best part? This incredible cultural experience is completely free and requires no tickets. You can simply turn up and enjoy the magic.
- Dates:4th February – 22nd February 2026
- Times 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM nightly
- Location:The Eye of York (YO1 9WZ)
- Cost:FREE (no booking required)
If you prefer a more relaxed experience, the final hour (8:00 PM – 9:00 PM) each evening is designated as a "Quiet Hour" with reduced sound levels and smaller crowds.
For more information on the Colour and Light Festival 2026, visit the official event page at York BID Colour & Lightt.