Guest blog by Caroline Davis, mum of a curious 7-year-old.

Birmingham Light Festival has a knack for turning winter evenings into something genuinely special. For families, that matters. February nights can feel long, routines are tight, and anything that promises shared experiences without pressure is a rare win.

Running from 12–15 February, Birmingham Light Festival (BLF) transforms the city into a walk-through gallery after dark, with free light installations and events across the city centre and beyond. Most artworks come alive from 6–10pm, and with a bit of planning, it’s absolutely possible to enjoy the festival with children in tow.

This is one family’s way of spending a long weekend at BLF - paced for little legs, big imaginations and a couple of warm food stops along the way.

Day One: Thursday Evening – First Lights

Starting at New Street Station

We’re arriving by train, which makes New Street Station a natural place to begin. From here, a gentle walk brings you straight into the festival atmosphere.

Two early installations that work well for families are Reunion, just outside the station, and My Heart Belongs in Birmingham on Lower Temple Street. They’re close together, visually striking, and ideal for easing children into the experience without rushing.

Around 7pm – Fire at the Bullring

For an energetic start, we head towards the Bullring. The fire-inspired performance FORGED draws a crowd for good reason - it’s loud, dramatic and immediately engaging. The combination of movement, sound and flame captures attention quickly, which is helpful with younger audiences.

This is also a good moment to pick up a festival map and get a sense of what’s nearby, rather than trying to cover everything at once.

7.30pm – Silly Statues Silent Disco, Victoria Square

This was a highlight for us last year. The Silly Statues Silent Disco turns a central square into a playful dance space where children (and adults) can join in or simply watch. It’s structured enough to feel safe and organised, but relaxed enough that families can dip in and out as suits them.

Dinner nearby

After a couple of hours outside, we usually plan a simple sit-down meal within walking distance. Chinatown and the city centre have plenty of family-friendly options, and keeping things local avoids tired legs later in the evening.

Caroline recommends - Dinner at Ming Moon:

After a couple of hours of lights, we like to unwind with dinner at Ming Moon in Chinatown. Their festival-themed buffet and exclusive BLF laser light show make this a fun, family-friendly supper stop - and it’s just a short walk from Victoria Square.

Day Two: Lanterns, Nature and an Earlier Night

5pm – Edgbaston Village Night Market

Starting earlier works better for us on the second night. The Edgbaston Village Night Market offers a calmer pace, with street food, local makers and space to wander. It’s also home to one of BLF’s longer-term light commissions, making it a good introduction to the area.

6pm – Bringing the Light Lantern Walk

The Bringing the Light Lantern Walk along the canal is one of the most accessible festival moments for families. Children can bring their own lanterns or lights, and the combination of music, decorated boats and shared movement creates a gentle sense of occasion.

Caroline recommends - Lantern making at the Pen Museum

If you like lantern making then you can also head over to the Pen Museum to get creative and make a lantern yourself!

7.30pm – Tipping Point at Birmingham Botanical Gardens

This installation offers a quieter, more reflective experience. Tipping Point uses light and sound to explore environmental themes in a way that’s immersive rather than overwhelming. For older children especially, it opens up conversations without feeling heavy.

Pairing this with one of the Botanical Gardens’ evening sessions makes for a slower, more contained end to the night.

For parents

While children enjoy festival snacks or a final wander, nearby areas such as Edgbaston Village also host evening activities during BLF, from creative workshops to relaxed drinks. It’s an option if you’re staying locally and want to extend the evening gently.

Practical Tips for Visiting with Children

Getting around

Birmingham’s tram and rail network makes moving between festival areas much easier with children. Short hops help conserve energy and keep evenings enjoyable.

 

Timing

Most installations begin at 6pm, but you don’t need to stay late to feel part of the festival. Many highlights are easy to catch before 8pm.

 

Wrap up warm

February evenings are cold, and stopping to watch installations means standing still. Gloves, scarves and a warm drink make all the difference.

Birmingham Light Festival isn’t about rushing from one artwork to the next. For families, it works best as a shared wander - moments of colour and movement, followed by warmth, food and conversation.

It’s generous, welcoming and flexible, and it reminds you that winter weekends can still feel full of possibility. Sometimes that’s exactly what a family night out needs.

For more information: Birmingham Light Festival on Visit Birmingham.