River of Light is back with a brand new theme – The Science of Light.
River of Light – Liverpool’s much-loved free light festival – is back for 2025, transforming the city’s waterfront into an outdoor gallery of spectacular illuminated artworks.
From Friday 24 October to Sunday 2 November, visitors can enjoy the 8th edition of the trail, which this year explores the theme ‘The Science of Light’. Ten large-scale installations will shine across a 3km route, each inspired by science, technology, or nature.
The trail will stretch across the Royal Albert Dock, Pier Head, Exchange Flags, and here at Liverpool ONE, inviting visitors to explore the city centre in a whole new light.
Liverpool ONE’s River of Light Artwork – OPTIK
OPTIK is a striking installation of giant illuminated rings that come to life through play and interaction. As the rings are spun and set in motion, waves of light and sound ripple across the structure, inviting people of all ages to discover the science and magic of light in a whole new way.
📍 Thomas Steers Way
Plan your visit
Full details on this year’s artworks, opening times, and FAQs can be found on the River of Light website.
Accessibility
Following the success of previous years, quiet hours will return to ensure the festival is accessible to all. These will take place on Sunday 26 and Wednesday 29 October (4–5pm), offering a calmer environment for visitors with additional sensory needs.
Liverpool ONE Toilet Opening Hours
During River of Light, the Liverpool ONE Toilets will operate extended opening hours as per below.
Sun 2 November / 10.30am – 8pm
Fri 24 October / 9am – 9pm
Sat 25 October / 9am – 9pm
Sun 26 October / 10.30am – 8pm
Mon 27 October / 9am – 9pm
Tue 28 October / 9am – 9pm
Wed 29 October / 9am – 9pm
Thu 30 October / 9am – 9pm
Fri 31 October / 9am – 9pm
Sat 1 November / 9am – 10pm
River of Light Offers at Liverpool ONE
Cups of Comfort at Flight Club Liverpool
This River of Light, warm up with something truly comforting at the Flight Club Hot Chocolate Stand.
Choose from a classic creamy hot chocolate or treat yourself to one of their indulgent boozy specials – the After 8 (Hot Chocolate with Fernet Branca) or Cinnamon Roll (Hot Chocolate with Licor 43 and cinnamon) are firm favourites.
Whether you’re exploring the lights or soaking up the atmosphere with friends, grab a Cup of Comfort and make your night a little sweeter.
Complimentary Side at Wagamama
Enjoy a complimentary side with every main meal purchased at wagamama, saving up to £10 per person! This offer is also available in addition to existing discounts such as Blue Light or student offers.
Perfect for a pre- or post-light trail bite, it’s the ideal way to refuel while taking in the glowing displays