York BID winter lights to return next winter season

York BID winter lights to return for the 2017-18 winter season York’s sparkling city wall bars at Micklegate, Monkbar, Walmgate and Bootham will dress down on the 28th of February when their winter lights are removed and packed away until the next winter season.

Since December, the city’s historic ‘gateways’ have displayed an unprecedented shimmering cascade that has brightened the evening atmosphere for residents, businesses and visitors. The York Business Improvement District (BID), sponsor of the winter lights, is planning to expand the current display for 2017-18 and make the winter lights a recurring seasonal feature in the city centre.

Andrew Lowson, York BID Executive Director says, ‘The response to this year’s display gave us an indication of the significant impact the attraction had on the city during the winter season. Through feedback from businesses, comments from the public and an overwhelming reaction to images of the lights on social media clocking more than 14,000 interactions, it’s obvious the winter lights will have a second act. We are currently looking to dress the city wall bars again plus add a few more features that will be just as exciting and stunning as this past season’s spectacle.’

For three months the lights have been illuminating the city centre’s medieval wall entrances during the cold, dark season. But with springtime well on its way, York’s businesses, its residents and visitors can now enjoy increased daylight hours and lighter evenings.

Zoe Plummer, owner of Ambiente Tapas on Goodramgate and Fossgate says, ‘The winter lights created a real wow factor, praised by residents and visitors. As a city-centre business owner, it was great to see the BID’s work positively highlight York’s welcoming atmosphere, particularly beyond the holiday season. It’s initiatives like this that create extra interest in our city and keep people returning year after year.’