Longford Lights: Ireland's Premier Community Arts Festival Returns for 2025
County Longford's spectacular light-based arts celebration returns with its most ambitious programme yet, featuring 29 different exhibitions, international artists, and community performances across four magical evenings.
The annual Longford Lights festival, recognized as Ireland's most significant community-based lights arts event, returns to transform Longford Town into a stunning outdoor gallery. Running across four consecutive evenings in February, the 2025 edition brings together an impressive roster of 29 distinct art installations that will illuminate historic Connolly Barracks, Bridge Street, and Lower Main Street.
This year's programme introduces an exciting live performance element called 'Metamorphosis,' a creative partnership between Spanish artists Cal y Canto and Irish composer Fiona Linnane. Drawing inspiration from local poet Eileen Casey's works, audiences will experience an unforgettable combination of fire performers, brass musicians, samba rhythms, towering puppet figures, video projections, and soprano performances by Longford native Maria Matthews.
The festival proudly supports artistic employment, providing opportunities for over 50 artists including international, national, and local talent, alongside student interns. Seven community groups and 32 schools have contributed to creating an enchanting town of illuminated lantern houses, each offering glimpses into village life through children's artwork.
Visitors from the UK and across Europe have contributed their talents, including Michelle Dufaur's collaborative project 'Crann Caillte' (Lost Trees) with local ICA Federation volunteers, exploring Ireland's native species through architectural chandelier lanterns. Dutch designer Paul Bokslag presents 'Flight,' featuring UV-lit white doves symbolizing peace, while German artist Ulrike Liebetrau's 'The Labyrinth' offers an immersive multi-sensory experience commenting on environmental sustainability.
Tickets are available in 60-minute entry intervals beginning at 6:30 PM, with the festival running until 9:30 PM nightly. Food vendors and rest areas ensure a comfortable experience for all attendees.