We’ve reached that time of year again—the days feel short, with darkness greeting many as they leave for work and return home. But it’s not all doom and gloom! This weekend, Portsmouth will light up with the return of We Shine Portsmouth.

Instead of hibernating at home, embrace the season! Wrap yourself in scarves and beanies, and get ready to explore all the magic this event has to offer.

This city-wide event will see an awe-inspiring array of light and art installations from Thursday, November 21st to Saturday, November 23rd 2024. We Shine promises three nights where local, national and international artists will illuminate Portsmouth, transforming streets, parks and historic spaces across three captivating hubs – St Mary’s Church, Victoria Park and brand new for 2024 – Hilsea Lido area.

Each installation and event is designed to engage, inspire, and celebrate the creative talents within the city and beyond. While all being completely free for the community to enjoy.

This year, the area around Hilsea Lido debuts as a brand-new festival hub, featuring a stunning projection by Limbic Cinema on a 25-metre water screen spanning Hilsea moat! This breathtaking installation explores the surreal beauty of artificial reefs, creating a dreamlike experience alongside additional light installations co-created with local community groups.

One of this year’s must-see experiences is located at St. Mary’s Church, which returns as a central festival hub featuring a brand-new, immersive projection titled ‘Once a Sea’ by acclaimed local artists Heinrich & Palmer. This specially curated projection explores St. Mary’s architecture from a perspective rooted in deep geological time, weaving archival images, time-lapse photography, and 3D laser scans. Visitors will be mesmerised by the intricate beauty of the incredible projection as it lights up the interior of the church.

Around the churchyard, visitors can also explore additional installations and participate in hands-on activities such as a 12-foot Pedal Powered Kaleidoscopic Mandala and dancing with LED Hula Hoops! Friday evening will come alive with Fratton Together’s Lantern Parade, a community-led procession through the churchyard with stunning handmade lanterns and the rhythmic energy of the popular Batala Drummers with their light-up drums.

Another family favourite is the Victoria Park Hub, which will remain open after dark for an enchanting experience with illuminated installations. Piano Walk, an impressive oversized interactive piano, created by internationally renowned Australian artists Amigo & Amigo, invites visitors to dance across an impressive oversized piano and create their own sound and light show. Fresh from Liverpool’s River of Light Festival, it’s not to be missed!

Back by popular demand, the We Create Market at Pitt Street Skatepark will once again offer a vibrant space to shop from local makers, designers, and artists—perfect for finding one-of-a-kind holiday gifts. New to the market this year is a ‘Young Creates’ zone, a dedicated market area spotlighting young talents from HSDC and the City of Portsmouth College, showcasing unique items crafted by emerging creatives.

The Market opening times and dates are slightly different to the main We Shine event.

Location: Pitt Street Skatepark

Opening Hours:

Friday 22nd: 5 pm to 9 pm
Saturday 23rd: 12 pm to 9 pm
Sunday 24th: 12 pm to 5 pm

Beyond the main festival hubs, We Shine will feature creative events throughout the city, offering everything from performance and doodle stations to nature-inspired trails and art exhibitions with a twist. In addition, Portsmouth City Council is hosting a festive Christmas Lights Switch-On each evening in Southsea, Cosham, and Commercial Road, creating an extra dash of seasonal magic for visitors.

If you’re not sure where to start or what is most local to you, then visitors can access an interactive map on the We Shine website. Organisers advise, “It is designed to help you plan your perfect route through Portsmouth’s illuminated streets.”

Portsmouth Creates has teamed up once again with the team behind Victorious Festival, who are lending their industry expertise and volunteering their time to help make We Shine 2024 a success. “It’s fantastic to support more cultural events in Portsmouth,” they said.

“We’ve been working tirelessly with the Victorious team to make this year’s We Shine truly memorable,” says We Shine lead organiser Billie Ralls. “With a diverse range of installations and activities across the city, this year’s event offers something for everyone and so many opportunities to participate. We can’t wait to share this magical experience with Portsmouth. Wrap up warm and make an evening of it —it’s going to be an unforgettable few nights!”

For more information see weshineportsmouth.co.uk

Website: portsmouthcreates.co.uk
Facebook: facebook.com/portsmouthcreates
Twitter: twitter.com/PortsCreates
Instagram: instagram.com/portsmouthcreates

Photos: We Shine Portsmouth