Aberdeen has been transformed into an immersive light show as Spectra returns for its 12th year.
Spectra, dubbed “Scotland’s Festival of Light”, returned on Thursday February 5, bringing four nights of art installations and towering projections to the Granite City.
Tens of thousands of visitors from Scotland and beyond are expected to explore the city with giant glowing blooms, kinetic light installations, suspended lanterns and architectural illusions.
The free-to-attend event will host a programme of 13 installations under this year’s theme ‘Be Curious’.
The festival will take place across key city locations, including Aberdeen Art Gallery, Union Terrace Gardens, Marischal Square, and St Nicholas Kirkyard.
Councillor Martin Greig, cultural spokesperson for Aberdeen City Council, said: “Aberdeen City Council are once again proud to present Scotland’s Festival of Light. The free city centre displays are enjoyed by all ages and add some magic and excitement into our lives.
“We have brought together local, UK, and international artists who have contributed wonderful designs and visions for everyone to enjoy. This is a welcome opportunity to showcase and reimagine our beautiful city. Each year, we are seeing more and more people travelling to the city to enjoy this wonderful cultural event.
“I am delighted that 1,500 school children have been involved and have produced their own artwork inspired by Spectra this year. It will be great to see their creations.
“Spectra brings important economic benefits by attracting more people into the city centre and by supporting local businesses. I hope that everyone has an excellent time at Spectra this year.”
New additions for this year include a marshmallow toasting station in Union Terrace Gardens and a Spectra merchandise shop, located in Upperkirkgate.
Ian Georgeson
Ian GeorgesonRunning until February 8, this year’s installations include a field of giant glowing blooms by Jig Cochrane and Jigantics at St Nicholas Kirkyard, a kinetic circular light sculpture called Flux by Collectif Scale at Aberdeen Art Gallery and Distopia by Onda Studio, which will transform the St Nicholas Spire façade with a fast-paced audiovisual show.
Solace, by UK-based artist Amelia Kosminsky, will feature in the Art Gallery, offering a “contemplative sanctuary” of handcrafted lanterns designed to inspire reflection and hope.
Visitors can also experience Follow your Heart, produced by local artist Laura Curran and commissioned through the Spectra 2026 Micro-Commission Programme, at St Nicholas Kirkyard.
Live music will once again be showcased from local and national musicians as part of Spectra’s Stage of Light.
The festival will be open every evening from 5.30pm until 10pm, with last entry at 9.30pm.
For more details on the festival, including the Spectra map, visit www.spectrafestival.com
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