Trust Horizon, Light up Whakatāne

WHAKATĀNE TOWN CENTRE

5 - 12 July 6PM — 9PM


Creativity, Culture and Community

At Light Up Whakatāne, we envision a future where our lighting festival becomes a beacon of creativity, culture, and community engagement. We aspire to curate an annual event that transcends boundaries, showcasing the works of local and regional artists, nurturing talent, and amplifying their voices on a national and international scale. Our vision includes driving tourism, boosting local businesses, and creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere where people of all ages and backgrounds come together to celebrate art, light, and shared experiences. We aim to expand the festival's reach, collaborating with local landmarks and natural landscapes, weaving a tapestry of light that showcases the unique character of Whakatāne.

Through our vision, we seek to leave a lasting legacy of inspiration, cultural enrichment, and community pride, positioning our district as a hub of artistic excellence and building a brighter future for all.

Opening Ceremony & Light Parade

This is the first night of the 8 day festival and we will be opening the event in style!

This night is all about experiencing the community involvement as part of the festival. Such a fun filled night!

Location: Wharaurangi/ Kakahoroa Carpark/ CBD

A FREE Community Event

Trust Horizon Light Up Whakatāne holds immense importance as a free community event. By having accesabiliy to the festival, we aim to create an inclusive and accessible experience for all members of the community. This approach ensures that individuals from various backgrounds and economic circumstances can participate and enjoy the event without any financial barriers. The free nature of the event fosters a sense of unity, bringing together people of all ages, families, and individuals to celebrate the magic of light and art. It encourages community engagement and social interaction, strengthening the bonds within our community and promoting a sense of belonging.

The accessibility of the event also allows us to reach a wider audience, including those who may not typically have the means to attend paid events. By providing this free experience, we aspire to create a vibrant and thriving community where art, culture, and creativity flourish, and where everyone has the opportunity to be inspired and delighted.

Trust Horizon Light Up Whakatāne is a collaborative effort by Arts Whakatāne, EPIC town centre group and Whakatāne District Council to bring together our community and manuhiri to celebrate arts, music, dance, and interactions through light. Light activations and digital displays, by local and regional artists, are installed throughout Whakatāne CBD and illuminated for eight nights, bringing light and joy to the darkness of winter.

Light Up Whakatāne welcomes artists and community groups to take part in the festival. For more information, please contact us.