Put Big Light On will return to Bolton this Christmas

The stunning light show was first shown downtown last December in place of a more traditional Christmas light switch.

It proved a huge success and in his address to Bolton City Council this month, Culture Cabinet member Nadeem Ayub said it would be revived over the Christmas period.

He said: “Put Big Light on, our light art trail will return in December and there are exciting plans to bring the highest quality light pieces to Bolton.”

He added: “I can confirm further details of events later in the year. I can confirm that the Earth will be on display at Bolton Central Library and something spectacular is planned for Victoria Square.”

A reindeer in the city centre last year (Image: Henry Lisowski)

Last year’s Put Big Light on Festival opened on November 30 and featured an exhibition called “Borealis,” created by artist Dan Archer.

It was on display for six nights in Bolton town centre around the Town Hall and Victoria Square.

The Moon Museum was created by artist Luke Jerram and was on display at the Central Library over the same six evenings.

Last year’s Moon Museum (Image: Henry Lisowski)

Councillor Ayub was speaking to a full meeting of Bolton City Council when he confirmed that the exhibition would take place again this year.

He also provided some details of the upcoming 2024 City of Culture programme, which will include a range of activities for people of all ages.

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Councillor Ayub said: “All of our cultural partners will come together to put our city in the spotlight and make it clear that we are experiencing a cultural renaissance.”

He was responding to a question from Great Lever Councillor Karen Hon, who wanted to know what benefits the City of Culture programme would bring to the borough.

She said she hoped this would build on events such as Ironman, Bolton Pride, Right to Roam, the Food and Drink Festival in August and the Film Festival in October.

Councillor Hon said she also hoped this would fit in with the work of the Octagon Theatre and other venues.