As the dark nights draw in, Dublin is lighting up with the return of its Winter Lights in 21 locations across the city, including five new additions.
Dublin Winter Lights returns with 21 glittering locations across the city.
The council switched the lights on last night, which will illuminate the city throughout the festive period until 1 January.
The trail comprises 21 illuminated locations, colourful light projections, and lighting displays along two walking trails that take guests on a journey through the city.
Bringing a festive feeling to the city – lighting up Ireland’s capital
The highly anticipated Dublin Winter Lights is set to be bigger and better than ever. Organisers have planned five brand new locations lighting up the city streets and walls.
The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Alison Gilliland, says she’s delighted to see the lights return.
“I’ve been a huge fan of Dublin Winter Lights ever since it began in 2018. The contrast between the bright lights and the dark evenings makes for a stunning backdrop to the city.
“I am delighted to see representative photos of so many of our community volunteers on the light sails of Smithfield Square.
“They really are the heart of every community. Our Childrens’ Wall on Barnardo Square will project entries from our recent Dublin Winter Lights Art Competition.
“We all need a bit of colour in our lives, so I would encourage Dubliners to visit the city centre and take in as many locations as they can. I know that’s definitely something I’ll be doing this festive season!”
Dublin Winter Lights returns to the city – an eco-friendly approach
As our environmental impact is at the forefront of everyone’s mind, the talented team of 60 people have worked hard to ensure the enjoyable event will have a minimal impact.
The event uses no diesel generators. Instead, Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel acts as the main source of power.
HVO fuel is made from 100% renewable waste materials. Thus, resulting in up to a 90% reduction in CO2 emissions, 86% reduction in Particulate matter, and up to 30% reduction in Nitrogen Oxide emissions.
157,800 low power LEDs, equipment, and cables bring to life the sustainable project.
Using the latest in energy-saving Laser Projection technology, Dublin Winter Lights will comprise 300w, 400w, and new 500w LED bulbs. These bulbs will replace last year’s 2500w.
See the lights all across the city – follow the illuminated trail
Dublin Winter Lights 2021 comprises two separate walking trails, one north of the Liffey and one south.
Walking trail one takes along ten locations, including the historical Liberties area, City Hall, Trinity College, and Merrion Square Park.
Walking trail two begins at the Hugh Lane Art Gallery. It guides guests through 11 locations, including Smithfield Square and the GPO, before concluding at Capital Dock.
One of the artists involved in creating this year’s Dublin Winter Lights is multi-disciplinary designer Afonso Boranga. Accompanying him is illustrator and muralist Holly Pereira, award-winning designer and light artist Stephen Mac Devitt, and many others.
For more information, visit www.dublin.ie/winterlights.
