Community calls for support for beloved 'Festive Lightwalk'

One of Wolverhampton's most joyful community events is returning for 2025 - but organisers need support from local people to help power the magic.

#LoveTheReans, a much-loved Festive Lightwalk in the heart of Wolverhampton, is returning on Friday, December 12 and Saturday, December 13. The magical event was launched by Gatis Community Space in 2023 to provide an affordable alternative to high-cost commercial light shows. This year, the organisers have launched a crowdfunder to help cover essential costs and keep the magical event accessible to all.

Over the past two years, hundreds of local families have enjoyed the Lightwalk. Last year's event brought the whole neighbourhood together, with glowing installations, a campfire, letters to Santa, a bustling craft market and the Youth Club pantomime. The event relies on volunteers and creativity to stretch a tiny budget.

The #LoveTheReans Festive Lightwalk brings together artists, technicians, young people and community volunteers.

Organisers are determined to keep the event affordable: a standard family ticket is only £10 for up to 6 people. However, this year, there is no external funding to support the event, and essential costs like insurance and safety costs need to be covered. Organisers are asking those who can afford to, to donate in advance.

The crowdfunder will help cover these essential costs and keep the event alive. Even a small donation will make a meaningful difference. The crowdfunder is now live at: #LoveTheReans Festive Lightwalk - a Creative & Arts crowdfunding project in Wolverhampton by Maria Billington.