GDIF 2024 | London’s free, annual outdoor performing arts festival 23 August-8 September 2024
11 – 22 December | 5.30 – 10pm
Borealis by Dan Acher offers a mesmerising must-see moment of awe and wonder, lighting up the heart of the City of London.
This spectacular immersive installation, inspired by the Northern Lights, will light up the skies over Guildhall Yard. Time seems to slow down as eyes look up at Dan Acher’s spectacular installation.
Presented by FESTIVAL.ORG, the City of London Corporation and the Greater London Authority.
Part of Let’s Do London, the Winter Lights programme and the Square Smile campaign.
Watch our new Borealis Film
Access
Site Access
There is level access across the performance location and from the nearest stations.
This site is:
- Wheelchair accessible
- Assistance Dog Friendly
- Relaxed Environment
Seating and Viewing Areas
Chairs will be available on request from the Box Office. The site will be socially distanced and managed capacity.
On-site walking distances
Minimal
Respite and Access Areas
This is a quiet and relaxed show. You can leave and return at any time.
Relaxed Time Slot
5.30pm- 6pm on Sundays will be our Relaxed Time. This means: reduced capacity, more lighting around site and reduced sound. Our staff will be available to support.
Accessible Toilets
Large accessible toilets with running water available inside Guildhall Yard.
Blue badge parking
Designated parking spaces are located in Aldermanbury, Basinghall, Gresham and Coleman Streets. Maximum stay four hours Monday to Friday. There is no time limit on Saturday and Sunday.
Access drop-off point
Aldermanbury, EC2V 7PG
Photo route
Available to download in ‘Where to Find it’ section.
Contact
If you have any accessibility questions, please email: [email protected] with the subject ‘Access’
Show Access
Age: 0+
We are committed to providing an inclusive environment, for this event we are providing:
Accessible Resources downloadable at the following links:
- Audio Described (Digital Introduction)
- Easy Read Description
- Induction Loop at Box Office
Access content will be available online via your mobile phone. Please bring a charging pack if you are concerned about battery use.
Find out more about our ‘What to Expect’ icons at: festival.org/access
- Join In
- Make Some Noise
- Great For Kids
- Sensory Spectacle
- Speech Free
- Relaxed Environment
This performance will include soft flashing lights and music.
Sorry, this event has already happened!
Where to find it
Guildhall Yard, City of London, EC2V 5AE.
About the artist
In his practice, Dan concentrates on the emotions he can trigger in people and the behavioural impact this can have. His immersive installations, participative events and ‘new city rituals’ enable people to engage differently with each other and their environment. Crucially, by transforming the emotional context of the city spaces they are accustomed to, Dan’s productions allow citizens to come together beyond what might divide them. Faithful to this vision, his latest installations examine our relationship with nature and, as world citizens on a shared planet, each other.
Supported by
Presented by the City of London Corporation as part of the Greater London Authority’s Winter Lights Festival. Produced by FESTIVAL.ORG.
Health and Safety
COVID-19 Safety at the event
The City of London Corporation is following National Guidelines on COVID- 19 to ensure our events are delivered safely. For the most up to date information regarding COVID-19 please visit https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus.
We are working hard to create a safe environment for our events and guidance on how they will be operated will be updated here.
Please read the guidance carefully so you know what to expect them visiting our events.
Borealis
When visiting our event please ensure you:
- Stay with you group whilst attending the event
- Keep your distance from others whilst at the event
- Following any event signs or instructions during your visit
Our team is here to help. Please follow their instructions to unsure you have a safe and enjoyable visit.
When not to visit
Please do not visit us if you or a member of your household have any symptoms, have recently tested positive for COVID-19 or have been asked to isolate following a Test and Trace call.
The main symptoms of COVID-19 are:
- A new continuous cough
- A high temperature
- A loss of, or change in, your normal sense of smell or taste
We thank you for your assistance and ask you help us make it a success by following all guidance provide to you in advance or at the event.
We hope you enjoy your time at Borealis.
FAQ
I don’t have a ticket for Borealis, what can I do?
Please check for returned tickets. Alternatively, you can join a walk-up queue every evening between 5:45 pm and 9.30 pm.
Please bear in mind that admission is only guaranteed by prebooking.
Can I bring my dog?
Pets are not permitted on this site, including dogs. Assistant dogs or service dogs are welcome.
Is there a place to securely park my bike?
Bikes are not permitted inside the installation; however, we do encourage people to cycle wherever possible. The link below has an interactive map listing all secure bike parking near Guildhall Yard.
https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/services/streets/covid-19-cycle-with-confidence
What else can I see?
Food and drink options are available to buy at the event from The Wine Tap Van, serving mulled wine, hot cider, festival cocktails and much more. Hot chocolate and mince pies are also available.
There are also lots of things to do in the City before or after experiencing Borealis, from historic attractions to shopping and dining.
Check out the nearby Guildhall Art Gallery and Roman Amphitheatre, which combines world-class artworks with the ruins of a theatre that once hosted gladiatorial contests. Visit St Paul’s Cathedral, where you wander beneath the famous dome. Or discover an ancient temple, the London Mithraeum.
If you’re keen to do some Christmas shopping, One New Change is a short walk away and offers a range of big name brands; while The Royal Exchange features high-end boutiques in a charming setting.
Warm up with a drink or dinner at one of the many restaurants and bars nearby. The Ned houses six eateries and bars, including health-conscious Malibu Kitchen; stylish Coq d’Argent mixes modern French food with panoramic views; and Madison boasts unique views of St Paul’s Cathedral from its roof terrace.
Image Gallery
