A record number of people turned out to see the city's River of Light as it lit up the waterfront.
More than 250,000 people travelled along the 2km walking trail throughout the city centre, with shops, bars and restaurants reporting a boost in sales. Taking place across 17 nights in the run up to Bonfire Night weekend, the event showcased ten artworks from local, national and international artists.
Liverpool ONE recorded a 27% increase in footfall when the event started at 5pm compared to 2021, and overall sales were up by at least 5% - although this figure could increase when more data is processed.
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Liverpool ONE welcomed 1.7 million people into its stores during River of Light, with October half-term being their busiest week of the year to date.
Liverpool BID Company reported a significant increase in Castle Street footfall day-on-day, in comparison with 2019 – with the October event dates proving to be the busiest. During the week, footfall on Castle Street was up nearly 70% and at weekends it was up by 42%.
Royal Albert Dock also welcomed the additional evening visitors with many businesses located on the complex, noting a boost in sales. River Of Light was delivered by Liverpool City Council’s Culture Liverpool team and was supported by Arts Council England.
Anyone who explored the trail is encouraged to fill in the online survey to provide the team with feedback which will help shape future events. The survey can be found here.
Bill Addy, CEO of Liverpool BID Company and Chair of LVEN, Liverpool Visitor Economy Network, said: "Public art and animation is such an important ingredient in our everyday life in Liverpool city centre. River of Light helps to attract so many visitors to the city, engaging with beautiful art and everything the city centre has to offer.
“For our businesses it helps to showcase the mixed economy that makes Liverpool so vibrant. There's something for everyone and when we increase footfall numbers and give everyone something to smile about and enjoy it has a positive impact on our economy as well."
Assistant Mayor and Cabinet Member for Culture and Visitor Economy, Councillor Harry Doyle, said: “River of Light is a beautiful, established tradition in this city and it’s wonderful to see the event go from strength to strength each year.
"I always try to visit this event as a punter, and I loved my experience this year. Each night was busy and the atmosphere was amazing – seeing families with their dogs and groups of friends of all ages making the most of this free showcase and trying to get the best selfie they could at each installation. And what a selfie-backdrop those installations provided."
Abram Santa Cruz, the artist responsible for Electric Dandelions on the Pier Head, said: “Having the Electric Dandelions in the River of Light show in Liverpool has been a dream come true. It was an honour to be invited to have our work displayed in such a beautiful city and working with Culture Liverpool has been such a treat. Everyone has been a pleasure to work with.”
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