‘Exceptional artistic talent’ will transform Longford into a glowing wonderland

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Longford Lights 2026 was launched at Áras an Chontae, offering a vibrant preview of Ireland’s largest Midlands arts festival as it prepares for its spectacular finale this February. READ MORE BELOW PHOTO

Throwback Thursday | Do you recognise anyone in this gallery of classic Longford black and white photos from 1999?

Caption: Pedal Power: ‘Glow on the Go’, one of Ireland’s first-ever night time illuminated bicycle parades, is set to be one of the highlights of the 2026 Longford Lights Festival and Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Garry Murtagh is getting in some early practice. Picture: Shelley Corcoran

The launch also featured a retrospective photography exhibition showcasing memorable moments from previous festivals, with over 30 striking images by 18 amateur and professional photographers which will be on display at Áras an Chontae until March 2.

Now in its fifth and final year, Longford Lights has become a cornerstone of the region’s cultural calendar, attracting almost 12,000 visitors annually. 

Also read: Working to strengthen Longford’s position as a must-visit destination

Organisers revealed an exciting programme to an audience of artists, schools, community groups and funders, including Longford County Council, the Arts Council, Creative Ireland and Mide Arts Group, Longford Tourism and Longford Local Community Safety Partnership.

This year’s theme, ‘Lightly Playful,’ promises a joyful celebration of colour, creativity and imagination. The festival runs from Thursday, February 19 to Sunday, February 22, transforming Longford Town into a glowing wonderland.

Among the standout features is ‘Glow on the Go,’ one of Ireland’s first-ever nighttime illuminated bicycle parades. 

Over two nights, members of the Irish Wheelchair Association’s Longford branch and Heartland Wheelers Cycling Club will take to the streets on specially adapted tricycles and ‘Frankenstein bikes’ adorned with lights and percussion instruments, creating a moving spectacle of sound and colour.

Longford Lights continues to champion inclusivity and local creativity. Two major projects involve schools and community groups:

* Camlin Calling – Primary schools along the river route will create a shimmering river of paper boats celebrating the Camlin.

* Storyworks – Inspired by traditional stitching, this project unites groups such as the ICA, Longford Indian Group, Granard Yarnbombers and St Christopher’s to craft a shared story through textiles and digital media.

Festival-goers can look forward to ‘Wanderland,’ an immersive art experience in Breaden’s Lane, inspired by ‘Alice in Wonderland.' Created by Finnish artist Veikko Lappalainen with Longford TY students, the installation will feature projections, lanterns and UV-lit artworks, culminating in a tunnel of stars leading to Dublin Street.

Also read: Artists and community groups attend Longford Lights seminar

For the first time, Thursday, February 19 will be dedicated to neurodiverse audiences, ensuring the festival remains welcoming to all. Each evening will feature dynamic performances, including ‘In the Dead of Winter’ by Shawbrook Dance, ‘The Glowing Flock,’ the ‘Giants’ Parade,’ and the ‘Absurdist Pipe Band,’ alongside returning favourites Blasta Brass and Bula Bula Samba Band.

Caroline Conway, Artistic Director, said, “This is a unique event that strengthens the arts in Longford and continually surprises and enthrals audiences. This year’s festival theme embraces a joyful spirit of playfulness, captured in the theme ‘Lightly Playful.’ It is a family-focused celebration, filled with colour and imaginative artworks, many of which have been created by the community.”

PICTURES | 'The Light Fantastic': Stunning gallery of images from magical Longford Lights Festival

Cathaoirleach Cllr Garry Murtagh said, “It is easy to see why Longford Lights is going from strength to strength and attracting audiences to our county town. It is ambitious, while also being local and authentic. I congratulate everyone on their work so far and I encourage people to get their tickets for Longford Lights 2026."

Paddy Mahon, Chief Executive of Longford County Council, said, “The Council is a proud supporter and funder of Longford Lights. It is a festival which brings many people into our county town, exploring what we have to offer and witnessing our exceptional artistic talent. It is great to see the organic expansion of the festival as it becomes larger and attracts more and more people.”

The Longford Lights Photography Exhibition runs until Monday, March 2 at Áras an Chontae. The festival takes place from 6.30pm to 10pm, Thursday, February 19 to Sunday, February 22. Tickets are limited—book now at www.LongfordLights.ie to secure your place at this unforgettable event.