Prepare to see Portsmouth in a whole new light as the popular We Shine Portsmouth festival, which previously has attracted over 80,000 visitors, returns with light installations by both local and international artists.
Among the must-see attractions is St. Mary’s Church in Fratton, with a brand-new, specially curated projection named ‘Once a Sea’, created by renowned local light artists Heinrich & Palmer. Other highlights include Victoria Park after dark and new for this year, Hilsea Lido featuring an awe-inspiring projection by the amazing Limbic Cinema.
In addition, our annual high street Christmas Lights Switch-On events will warm up the crowds on each night of We Shine, in Southsea, Cosham and Commercial Road.
Councillor Steve Pitt, celebrating the festival’s return, shared:
“I know everyone will be as excited as I am to see what wonders We Shine will bring to our city this November. This festival of light has become a highlight in our city’s cultural calendar, and its popularity with residents and visitors alike continues to grow.”
Among the must-see attractions is St. Mary’s Church with a brand-new, specially curated projection named ‘Once a Sea’. This stunning projection aims to imaginatively explore the architecture of St Mary’s from the perspective of deep, geological time. Using a fusion of archival imagery, time-lapse photography, high-speed film, microscopy, photogrammetry and 3D laser scans of St Mary’s Church, ‘Once a Sea’ takes the viewer on an infinitesimal journey through time and space.
Visitors can also explore more installations in St. Mary’s churchyard, and even get hands-on with creative activities. On Friday evening, the community spirit will come alive with Fratton Together’s Lantern Parade, with members of the local community showcasing their beautiful lanterns, culminating in a vibrant procession through the churchyard accompanied by the pulsating beats of the Batala Drummers.
Another highlight is the opportunity to rediscover Victoria Park after dark. Typically closed in the evening, We Shine will open the park until 9pm for a unique experience showing a magical new perspective on this familiar space. The internationally acclaimed light artists Amigo & Amigo, from Sydney, Australia will present their latest interactive work, Piano Walk, inviting visitors to step onto an oversized piano and join a collaborative performance that brings the installation to life.
Hilsea Lido will debut as a new festival hub this year, featuring an awe-inspiring projection by the amazing Limbic Cinema. Displayed on a giant 25-meter water screen over the moat near the Lido, this stunning installation exploring the surreal world of artificial reefs across the planet is not to be missed. This immersive experience will be complemented by a range of light installations and projects co-created with local community groups.
Alongside the amazing art and light installations, We Create Market will be back at Pitt Street Skatepark. Brimming with local makers, designers, and artists it will be the perfect place to shop local and get some exceptional handcrafted Christmas gifts.
This year the market will house a brand-new area ‘Young Creates.’ In partnership with HSDC and the City of Portsmouth College, there is a dedicated zone to supporting young people at the start of their creative journeys and an opportunity to purchase their unique creations.
Beyond these main locations, the festival will feature a variety of creative events throughout the city, with plenty of opportunities for visitors to dance, doodle, hula-hoop, and shop.
An interactive map will be available on the We Shine website to help plan your perfect festival experience.
Gemma Nichols, CEO of Portsmouth Creates, the community interest company (CIC) behind We Shine Portsmouth and the We Create Market, said:
“We are delighted to bring We Shine back to Portsmouth this year! The festival showcases the incredible creativity of our local artists, while also fostering a sense of community and connection through shared experiences. Thanks to the support of our Founding Partners—Arts Council England, the University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth City Council, and the team at Victorious Festival—we’re able to offer this amazing event completely free to the public.”