Longleat's Roald Dahl-themed Festival of Light attraction officially open

By Jessica Durston - 7 November 2022

AttractionsFamily
  • The BFG (Credit for the following images - Lloyd Winters)

    The BFG (Credit for the following images - Lloyd Winters)

Longleat Safari Park's Festival of Light event is back this year, and the 2022 theme is 'The Wondrous Worlds of Roald Dahl.'

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

The Festival of Light returned to Longleat with an official opening to the public on 5 November.

After a two-year absence, the popular family event is back, with an all-new outdoor spectacular showcasing ‘The Wondrous Worlds of Roald Dahl’.

Running until 8 January 2023, this year’s fantastical festive celebration is said to be the biggest and most ambitious to date with more than 800 individual lanterns, set against the backdrop of the famous Longleat House.

Working in partnership with the Roald Dahl Story Company, a Longleat spokesperson said a highly skilled team of designers has created a series of stunning, illuminated scenes bringing these timeless stories and worlds spectacularly to life.

The spokesperson added: "Embark on a fantastical journey and meet much-loved characters from the Roald Dahl stories. Each lantern scene brings key moments from the iconic books to life, from The BFG and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to Matilda, The Twits and Fantastic Mr Fox.

"Be amazed by James' Giant Peach floating on the lake, find yourself awestruck by George's Marvellous Medicine and visit Crunchem Hall with Matilda and Miss Honey.

"You can even walk through Wonka's factory gates, with the Chocolate Factory standing at an impressive 25.5m in height. That’s taller than Longleat House!"

The event held a press evening on 4 November, where the Lord and Lady of Bath gave a short speech welcoming those attending, and held a countdown before the light displays were switched on. 

Ceawlin Thynn, 8th Marquess of Bath said: “We are so excited to be back with the UK’s original, biggest and most exciting lantern show – The Festival of Light at Longleat.

“This year’s event feels even more special, as we come together for the first time since 2019 to enjoy this amazing spectacle.

“It is the first time the iconic characters and stories of Roald Dahl have been brought to life as lanterns, with unforgettable moments from the stories reimagined on a huge scale – from The BFG to James and the Giant Peach.

“The Festival of Light is the perfect chance for families and friends to make memories together at Longleat this winter.”

The festive fun continues with the return of Longleat’s 15-metre Enchanted Christmas Tree Show.

All-In-One tickets include access to all the popular animal and adventure attractions, including the Winter Safari Drive-through.

Twilight Tickets are available on selected dates. With entry from 3pm the tickets give access to the festive Main Square attractions and the Roald Dahl lantern trail.

For more information, individuals can visit www.longleat.co.uk

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