River of Light countdown is on and news of a ‘Scouse’ playlist is in

The countdown to Merseyside’s bonfire night are underway and more has been unveiled about this years new-look River of Light.

Plans are in place for a ‘scouse’ finale to round off next weekend’s music and firework spectacular.

The new-look River of Light returns to the waterfront on Sunday 5 November with nationally acclaimed company Titanium Fireworks at the helm.

Taking on board feedback from 2016, an upbeat soundtrack has been created to accompany the display which starts at 6.30pm. Audiences can expect a mix of up-to-date chart hits from international artists, and as a special nod to the city, the final three tracks will be by world famous, home grown talent – The Beatles, Frankie Goes to Hollywood and Paul McCartney.

The tracks themselves are being kept under wraps, but the team are aiming for a dramatic finale to round off the fireworks which will be set off from huge barges floating near the water’s edge on the Mersey.

A map has been produced for the FREE event which highlights the best vantage point for the Liverpool audience to see the display and hear the music. The map also shows the locations of the pre-fireworks family entertainment, the food and drink concessions and the toilets.

Assistant Mayor and Cabinet Member for Culture, Tourism and events, Councillor Wendy Simon, said: “We’re expecting thousands to wrap up warm and head to the waterfront on 5^th November, so the map is a great way to ensure people know exactly where to go in order to get a great view and to hear the soundtrack.

“Logistically, it would be impossible for us to make sure music is playing the entire length of the waterfront, so by identifying the key vantage points, we will hopefully make sure that everyone can have a visual and audio treat on the evening.”

From 4pm on the Sunday, a range of pre-show family entertainment will take place in Mann Island’s Atrium, with street performances taking place on The Strand, Pier Head and Princes Parade from 5pm.

River of Light will take place in both Liverpool and Wirral on 5 November – it will be two separate displays, but will be the same soundtrack. For the Wirral audience, the fireworks will be set off from Fort Perch Rock, New Brighton, at 6.30pm. Both displays will finish around 6.45pm.

River of Light Festival Liverpool.
Images by Gareth Jones

Important note for those attending Liverpool’s River of Light:

• From 5pm on Sunday 5 November, The Strand will be closed from Liver Street to Chapel Street. Liverpool ONE’S QPark will remain accessible during this time, with the road expected to reopen as soon as possible after the event.
• Viewing areas across the waterfront may be closed once full. The advice is to arrive early.

River of Light’s Presenting Partner is The LECCY – Liverpool Energy Community Company, set up by the Mayor of Liverpool to offer low cost gas and electricity to people.  The event is also being supported by Merseyrail which will run regular services throughout the day. James Street, Moorfields and Liverpool Central are the stations within walking distance from the event, with return travel starting from £1.95, or a family of five can enjoy a Family Ticket for just £11. To plan your visit via the planner –www.merseyrail.org/plan-your-journey.

For more information on the event, visit www.riveroflightfireworks.co.uk.

Also head to the Culture Liverpool pages and get involved use the #RiverOfLight in your comments.