Introducing Norwich’s newest festive attraction – The Canopy of Light

In a first for the city, Norwich Business Improvement District was proud last month to unveil a brand-new, site-specific bespoke light installation for the 2024 festive season – The Canopy of Light.

Seen for the first time at last night’s Festive Light Switch On event, the Canopy is inspired by the vision of dancing snowflakes in a winter landscape, and features changing atmospheric light sequences with its technology allowing for the seamless movement of colours, expression and twinkling patterns to keep visitors enthralled.

Situated in the picturesque sociable setting of the newly re-designed Hay Hill, this free, festive attraction can be enjoyed from every angle. Observe from the top of the hill, stand directly beneath the lights and look up or take a seat and watch the sequences if you have more time.

Norwich BID is proud to bring the city alight for the festive period. The Canopy of Light is the latest addition to our scheme which has developed over several years. We’ve invested to include wrap-around lights on the city’s trees and lamp posts which stretch from Gentleman’s Walk to London Street, through Davey Place to Prince of Wales Road, Tombland and Timberhill.

The Canopy of Light features 32,000 energy efficient LEDs using over 1200, 2-metre drops and 1.6 miles of linear lights strings – the equivalent to the length of 183 double decker buses.

Stefan Gurney, Executive Director, Norwich Business Improvement District said: “We wanted to bring a new experience to Norwich for the new public space at Hay Hill. Something which would change with the elements, create awe with movement and offer different perspectives from every angle. The breadth of controllable lighting options we have is a first for the UK using this technology. From every direction it can be viewed, observed and enjoyed.

“We feel The Canopy of Light complements Hay Hill and we hope that it will be enjoyed by everyone, nestled in the centre of the festive lights across Norwich.”