River of Light Festival brings big post-pandemic economic boost to Liverpool
Thousands of people were able to enjoy the free activities
Last updated 8th Nov 2021
Liverpool's annual River of Light festival has brought the first major economic boost to the city since the start of the pandemic.
The festival saw 150,000 people taking part in free activities along a 2-kilometre route lit with illuminated artworks.
Running for 17 nights, the event boosted the city's economy, with the Liverpool ONE shopping centre reporting a 15% increase on the figures from 2019.
Visitors to the area also went up by 21%, with the Liverpool BID company recording its highest numbers of shoppers since the beginning of the pandemic.
The festival, under the theme of "Rhythm of Light", was inspired by Liverpool's contribution to music and society.
Thousands were entertained by installations designed to get people involved - such as the all-in-one instrument Light Piano - were big hits for the public.
As a result, the 2021 edition of the River of Light festival has been hailed the most successful yet.
Councillor Harry Doyle, Cabinet Member for Culture and Visitor Economy said: “It now officially feels like Liverpool is back! From the moment these artworks were switched on, residents and visitors flocked to the waterfront to experience what River of Light had to offer and social media was flooded with the most fantastic images of the city literally shining.
“After our hospitality and leisure sector was hit so hard by the pandemic, it has been wonderful to see the economic boost that comes with staging events.
"It feels great to be able to announce that River of Light will return in 2022 and with the World Gymnastics Championships taking place in the city at the same time, Liverpool will shine under the events spotlight once again.”
Preparations have already begun for next year's festival. The 2022 edition will be again held over 17 days between October 21st and November 6th. Full details of the event will be published in due course.