Norwich Unveils “Canopy of Light” Featuring 32,000 LEDs

A custom-designed Christmas illumination featuring 32,000 LED lights has been revealed in a city center location. Named The Canopy of Light, it commenced operations on Thursday in Norwich’s recently renovated Hay Hill district, coinciding with the city’s Festive Switch-On event. The Norwich Business Improvement District (BID), responsible for organizing this new installation, stated its inspiration came from the concept of “dancing snowflakes in a winter landscape”. According to Stefan Gurney, the executive director of the BID, the objective was: “We wanted to bring a new experience to Norwich for the new public space at Hay Hill.” He further elaborated, stating: “Something that would change with the elements, create awe with movement and offer different perspectives from every angle.” Gurney also highlighted that: “The breadth of controllable lighting options we have is a first for the UK using this technology.” The BID indicated that the new installation incorporates 1.6 miles (2.5km) of LED bulbs and, consistent with all public Christmas light installations in Norwich, operates on renewable energy. From 2016 to 2022, during each Christmas season, the city presented the Tunnel of Light, a video tunnel comprising 57,000 LED lights designed to mimic the Aurora Borealis. Organizers expressed their belief that this display, costing £60,000, was the largest of its kind in Europe.