Love Light Norwich 2024 cancelled due to lack of funding

Love Light Norwich was set to return for its third edition next year, having previously run in 2020 and 2022.

However, Norwich Business Improvement District (BID), which organises the event, has just announced its cancellation. 

READ MORE: Tunnel of Light cancelled in Norwich city centre in 2023

In 2022, the festival took place across three days in February, with light installations, special events and performances across the city centre. 

Ruby and Nathan at Love Light Norwich enjoying the Our Beating Heart installation Picture: Britanny Woodman (Image: Brittany Woodman/ Archant)

Due to the size and scope of the event, it relies on a big contribution from Arts Council England.

Despite successful applications for funding in 2020 and 2022, Norwich BID was not successful this time around. 

A spokesperson for Norwich BID said: "Applying for funding such as this is always competitive.

"While the team here is hugely disappointed about Love Light, it is heartening that there are so many other arts and culture events in the region that will be supported by Arts Council England in the coming year.

READ MORE: Charred Kitchen launches at Norwich pub with flatbreads and roasts

"Love Light has always been about supporting the city and its businesses at a time of year that is typically quieter following the Christmas peak.

Luminous Pareidolia at Norwich Cathedral for Love Light Norwich 2022 Picture: Brittany Woodman (Image: Brittany Woodman/ Archant)

"Love Light is also about creating an event that is free, inclusive and with community at its heart.

READ MORE: New four-day music festival with woodland dining planned for Norfolk estate

"This festival means so much to us because we know it means a lot to other people too.

"We have already begun work on our funding application to bring Love Light Norwich back for 2025.

"In the meantime keep an eye out for more announcements on 2024 events."

In September, Norwich BID announced that the Tunnel of Light would not return to Hay Hill over the 2023 festive period due to Norwich City Council's £3.2million redevelopment of the area.