Winter Light Nights

When the nights start getting dark and it feels like we might be in for a long winter, we love to get some outings booked in our calendar, to give us lovely things to look forward to and to brighten the dark nights. There are now a number of magical events in Cheshire over these few months to choose from and so many that are themed around bringing light and delight to dark nights. Here’s our top list of winter light nights:

1) Magical Woodland at Blakemere

From the 12th October – 3rd November:. A truly magical experience, wander the trail that loops round the 15-acre woodland with a hot choc in hand while being dazzled by displays of stars, lights, lasers floating umbrellas and flying lanterns while water fountains dance to their own ethereal music. A real winter experience and great for all ages to enjoy. Book tickets here

2) Winter Watch and Saturnalia Parade

Winter Watch and Saturnalia Parade in Chester followed by a visit to the Christmas Market. At 7pm from Eastgate Street you will be able to experience the special evening that merges two fantastic parades. The Saturnalia parade sees a re-enactment of a roman mid-winter celebration, the Roman legion light up the streets with a torch-lit parade and the Winter Watch is a historic event when the city leaders would hand over the keys to the city watch. An event unique to Cheshire, you wont be able to see this anywhere else!

3) Petzl Night Runner Delamere Forest

For a more energetic light night out – try the Delamere night runner where fancy dress is actively encouraged and the theme is “Spooky Halloween”. The course will be marked with reflective signs. All you need is a heard torch to light your path and some ‘grippy’ shoes to deal with the mud! There’s a free kids event with medals for all finishers so bring the family and enjoy and EPIC night out at Petzl Night Runner Delamere Forest.

4) Christmas at Dunham

This is a great one to take the family to in that ‘twixmas’ time after you’ve had your turkey and you you’ve got family visiting who you need to get out of the house! There are new trails for 2019, so even if you’ve been before there’ll be something new to amaze you. These world-renowned light installations light up the grand avenue replanted with gigantic illuminated flowers and project back onto the house. Stop off at the glowing Vortex Tunnels for an enchanting selfie! Pick up mulled wine, toasted marshmallows and hot chocolate along the way to keep you fuelled for evening. Find out more.

5) Lanterns at Chester Zoo 

The zoo gets transformed into a spectacular wonderland, follow the trail and set off on The Great Christmas Expedition to discover exotic illuminated wildlife and animal characters in nine different fantastical worlds. From traditional festive scenes to colourful animal-inspired illuminations. This year the updated route will take you on a journey through new worlds: from the bottom of the sea, through Tropical Dreams to Night Sky Adventure, travel through the clouds and stars, under the moonlight. Book tickets here.

6) LUMEN: Crewe’s Night of Lights Event

Head to Memorial and Lyceum Squares for LUMEN to see breathtaking contemporary light installations whirl around the urban landscape. The mesmeric kaleidoscope of colourful lights will be accompanied by street performers such as Spark!, who dance and drum to the rhythm of changing illuminations. Take little ones on a lantern procession and see their jaws drop at the spectacle of giant walkabout puppets, while fireworks crackle and bang, showering stars overhead.

7) Anderton Fireworks Spectacular

 
The terraced grounds of the magnificent Boat Lift allow for some truly fantastic views and WOW moments to view the fireworks from a multi award-winning pyrotechnic team. Viewing the fireworks set off from a floating pontoon on the River Weaver makes this a firework display like no other with beautiful reflections in the water. Fairground rides, tasty food, fully licenced bar, live music accompany thefireworks to make this a full night out. Book tickets here.