What is Spotlight Festival?
Spotlight Festival is inspired by the historic ‘Lights of Leamington’ festival (1951-1961). The main event runs over 5 days, over February half term and features beautiful light inspired artwork, experiences, and events.
Wrapping around this, over 17 days and launching on the 14th of February, visitors to Leamington Spa Town Centre will also discover a range of free light themed trails and activities to enjoy.
What are the key dates for the 2025 festival that I should be aware of?
- Switched On Stories Launch: 7th February
- Power of Love Trail: 14th February – 2nd March
- Spotlight Festival: By the Lake – Wednesday 19th February – Sunday 23rd February
- More TBC
Do I need tickets?
Yes and No!
The main event called ‘By the Lake’ is 100% free to attend, so are many of the trails and installations.
Some events are ticketed to manage numbers and there may be a cost. We have tried to accommodate all budgets to ensure the event remains accessible, whist enabling some provision for future sustainability. You can view prices in the ‘what’s on’ section.
Where can I find more information about the artists who have contributed to the festival?
Some installations will display information, and QR codes linking to further information. Otherwise you can find information in the News and Views section.
Please get in touch if there is anything specific you wish to know.
Will there be food and drink at the festival?
Yes! Leamington town centre offers a variety of cafes, bars and restaurants near the installations, providing plenty of options for you to explore and enjoy during your visit.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes! Dogs are welcome at all outdoor festival locations. Please keep them on a lead and ensure they’re comfortable with bright lights and in larger crowds. We also have a ‘Dog-Friendly Leamington’ guide, listing all venues that welcome your furry friends, available on the ‘Love Leam App’. This is available from the App Store.
What is Switched On Stories?
Whittle Productions secured funding from the National Heritage Lottery Fund in August 2024 to unearth, catalogue, archive and showcase the historic ‘Lights of Leamington’ festival (1951-1961).
The project is called ‘Switched on Stories’ and will culminate in an exhibition, film and community events in mid-February, to showcase this magical and culturally significant festival. You can find out more at www.switchedonstories.co.uk.
Where will Spotlight Festival and Switched On Stories take place?
All activities are located in the heart of Royal Leamington Spa Town centre. A map of locations will be released closer to the event.
How can I get to the festival?
The festival is conveniently accessible by public transport, with bus and train routes stopping within walking distance of Leamington Spa town centre. You can plan your visit here.
Is the event accessible?
We’ve worked hard to make Spotlight Festival accessible to all. An Accessibility Guide, will be available closer to the festival. Consideration has been given to hard-standing routes, dropped curbs and accessible paths along trails and key routes.
Who can I speak to at the festival if I need help?
Our friendly security, stewarding and volunteer teams will be on-site and easily identifiable at each location to provide assistance if you need it.
How is the festival funded?
Funding for Spotlight Festival in 2025 has come via a variety of sources and we are still looking for support.
- Lights of Leamington research funding initially came via Arts Council England (ACE) in 2021/2022.
- Core funding to establish ‘Spotlight Festival’ and deliver strategic infrastructure for this and future events came via the Warwick District Council Government UKSPF fund in 2023/2024.
- BID Leamington funded the trails in the town centre including ‘The Power of Love’.
- ‘Switched On Stories’ is largely funded via National Heritage Lottery Funding with some support from Royal Leamington Spa Town Council.
- We are also hugely grateful to our Supporters – Sponsors and Partners who have helped with financial and in-kind contributions. Where relevant we have identified where their support has been directed.
Please contact us if you feel you can help in some way. The future of this event relies on support from our local community. Thank you.