The 2015 Festival of Light at Mount Stewart

This years’ festival of light is on from 20th – 29th November and promises to be a great spectacle.

Below is some information about the event.

What is the Festival of Light?

Building on the success of the past two years, Mount Stewart will once again host a magical
light show – but this year with a Christmas theme. With the support of Tourism NI, Festival of
Light will open from Friday 20 November until Sunday 29 November. Based on the Son et
Lumiere shows that originated in France this year’s festive show promises to be a
fascinating display.

Encompassing a festive Christmas theme, it will run over ten consecutive nights, offering the
opportunity to see the lake walk come alive with sparkling trees and mystical music. The
production will be managed by Belfast based lighting company Wackiki.

Our famous tipis will house various artisan food producers offering up Christmas treats and
visitors can take in the sights whilst relaxing by the open fire. Feel free to bring some
marshmallows to toast!

There will also be an opportunity to visit the beautifully restored Mount Stewart family home
to see how a traditional Christmas would have been for the Londonderry family.
There really is no better way to get in the festive spirit than to visit Festival of Light; a unique
and mesmerising experience for the whole family.

Where is the Festival of Light?

Mount Stewart, Portaferry Road, Newtownards, Co. Down, BT22 2AD.
The Festival of Light will focus on the Lake Walk, a beautiful circular route approximately a
mile long.
How far is it from Belfast?
40mins.
How far is it from Newtownards?
15mins.
How long does the event last for?
You should be on site for between 60 – 90 minutes to fully appreciate the event. Most
visitors walk around the lake more than once during their visit to ensure they see and hear
everything this magical experience has to offer. The event opens at 6pm, last entry is 9pm
and you can arrive as early or as late in the evening as you wish.
What time does The Festival of Light Close?
The site closes at 10pm.
Navigating the Festival of Light?
Please follow the route of the paths and ask any of stewards if you have any concerns.
Remember this is an outdoor event so safety guidelines will apply. There will be equipment
and cabling around the route that may be hot or carrying electricity so please be aware of
your surroundings.
What should I wear to the Festival of Light?
As it is an outdoor event and running throughout November we have the potential to
experience cold, wet, icy weather so please dress accordingly. We recommend warm,
waterproof clothing with practical boots or shoes.
Is there parking on site?
Yes. There will stewards who will direct you to the car park on your arrival and there will be a
short 5-10minute walk to the reception area.
Will there be food onsite?
Yes, the Bay restaurant will be open each evening and there will also be various outdoor
caterers around the route and beside the tipis.
Is it suitable for children/elderly/disabled visitors?
The event has been designed to cater for all ages and abilities; however care should be
taken whilst navigating the route, as it will be dark and possible muddy. We would advise
that young children be supervised at all times because of the nature of this outdoor event.
Are there disabled toilets on site?
Yes, there are disabled toilets located at the top of the car park, in the courtyard and in the
reception area.
Are there any concession rates for children/elderly/disabled or members?
There will be free entry for any carers. Children aged 5 -17 years will receive a discounted
rate and under 5 years old will avail of free entry. There are no concessions for elderly
visitors or members.
Can I bring a pram?
Yes, the paths will be accessible for prams.
Do you have wheelchairs and or mobility scooters on site for public use?
Unfortunately you would be required to provide you own mobility aids but the lake walk is
accessible for wheelchair users and mobility scooters. There is a short gravel section which
may be difficult to navigate however there is an alternative route if you are experiencing
difficulties. There will be steward’s available on each night to assist you if required.
Are dogs allowed at Festival of Light?
Because of the nature of this event we would advise that you don’t bring your furry friends,
however if you still wish to we would suggest that they are kept on a short lead and are
visible to other visitors, as it will be very dark. As there are lots of electrical cables,
loudspeakers and hot lights at doggy level we would ask you to proceed with caution.
I’m a photographer; can I use a tripod or monopod on site?
Yes, you are most welcome to bring a tripod or monopod to help with photographing the
event. Please be aware that the site will close at 10pm each evening so if you want to make
the most of your time, come as early as possible.
Where do I get my tickets from?
This is a ticketed event and all visitors must have a ticket to gain entry, including
National Trust members. Tickets are available to book online prior to the event
from http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mount-stewart/things-to-see-and-do
I’ve lost or forgotten my tickets can I still attend the event?
Yes, we will have a patron list that we can check for proof of purchase and you can still be
admitted into the event.
I would like to exchange my tickets for another night; is this possible?
Unfortunately not, the tickets are only valid for the evening you have purchased them for.
What happens if the event is cancelled and how will I know?
The event will only be cancelled in the following circumstances:
• When the weather is Mount Stewart is perceived to be a danger to the public due to
very high winds.
• A major failure in the electronics system
The event will NOT be cancelled in the following circumstances:
• Heavy rain/snow in Mount Stewart, we advise that all visitors dress appropriately for
the weather.
• Heavy rain/snow in any other part of Northern Ireland – we advise our visitors to take
note of the weather conditions on route to the event and allow ample time for their
journey.
• Very cold weather – we advise that our visitors dress warmly and appropriately for
cold weather.
The decision to cancel will be made by 11am on the day of the event and a notice will be
posted on our Facebook page, our website and social media feeds. You should check the
website on the day you are going to visit, particularly if extremely high winds or storm
conditions are forecast.
If Festival of Light is cancelled, do I get a refund?
Yes, you will be refunded, if the National Trust has to cancel the event. There may be an
option to come on an additional night if we can facilitate it, however we will confirm with you
if that is feasible.

For more information visit the following link.

http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mount-stewart/features/festival-of-light