A much-loved family event may make a return next year as Walsall Council explores the feasibility of bringing back Walsall Illuminations.
The Illuminations were one of Walsall's best-known family attractions, held annually in Walsall Arboretum each autumn for more than half a century.
They officially began in 1951 as part of the national Festival of Britain celebrations and ran until 2008 when the event was discontinued due to declining attendance and costs.
Walsall Council is now exploring the possibility of bringing a version of the event back to celebrate Walsall’s heritage and bring communities together.
Councillor Nicky Barker, Deputy Leader of Walsall Council, said: “The Walsall Illuminations are an important part of the borough’s history and something that lots of residents remember very fondly.
"Our aim is to secure the long-term future of the Illuminations, creating an attraction that residents can take pride in and families can enjoy for years to come.”
Initial discussions have begun with a local business to explore a modern light trail and family attraction operating throughout October 2027. The potential return of the event offers an opportunity to reflect the affection for the original illuminations, and the Arboretum’s distinctive setting.
Considerable work is still needed to establish whether the Illuminations can return. An assessment of the Arboretum’s electrical infrastructure is already underway.
A feasibility study, including estimated costs and potential funding arrangements, will be shared with elected members for a full review in due course. Cabinet will also consider a revised and updated events policy for the Arboretum.
The ambition is to bring this much-loved part of Walsall’s heritage back to the Arboretum, if feasible.
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