Where is it?
First Light is on the glorious and sandy, South Beach in Lowestoft, the nearest postcode is NR31 0DF. You can find out more about getting there on our Visiting the Festival page.
What are the festival timings?
Saturday
12:00-21:30 From noon to dusk you can hit the beach and Kensington Gardens for a packed first day of our free summer solstice celebration.
22:00-02:00 At dusk the party moves off the sand and into venues around Lowestoft for our ticketed Sundown Events.
Sunday
03:30-05:00 Gather on the beach and join the sunrise celebration for our unique Dawn programme
10:00-16:00 Another free day of discovery, music, workshops and more under the solstice sun.
Do I need a ticket?
First Light is free and unticketed! You’ll only need a ticket if you want to attend one of our Sundown Events on Saturday night once the free beach programme finishes at 21:30.
Can I perform, trade, volunteer or have a charity stall at First Light?
We’re now full for trading and charity stalls and while 2025’s programme is now finalised, there’s a form you can fill out if you’d like to send us information about yourself and let us know you’re interested in being involved next year!
Click the Get Involved link below to register your interest in volunteering, we’d love to have you as part of the team!
Visiting with your family?
Check out our guide to Staying safe at First Light Festival for Families to help you have a great time!
Can I bring my dog?
We love them, but dogs are not allowed on the beach where First Light takes place, so please leave your pooch at home.
Can I still swim in the sea?
Absolutely! However, please note that lifeguards only cover part of the beach – please check public notices.
If First Light is free, can I donate?
Yes please! You can support our free events by donating if you pick up a programme, buying merch over the festival weekend, and telling all your friends and family about First Light!
Can I bring my own food and drink?
We’ve an exciting line up of the best local street food vendors to keep you fed and watered over the weekend and you’re also welcome to bring your own food and drink to enjoy on the beach. Please keep spaces clean and safe for everyone by disposing of any rubbish using the bins or even better take it home with you. Please note that BBQs or glass items are not allowed at the festival.
Lowestoft is also home to some brilliant local pubs, cafes and restaurants, which we encourage you to use while you’re here.
Where can I stay?
While our Wild Beach Camping is the place to set up home for the weekend, we understand that camping isn’t for everyone. Check our Accommodation page for recommendations in Lowestoft and further afield!
Is the beach accessible?
We work hard to make the festival as accessible as possible. Our unique seafront setting is very beautiful, and we want everyone to experience and enjoy it, however, the natural environment and Victorian infrastructure may mean it is not easy to navigate for everyone.
We’ve put together a handy access guide for the festival site and venues to help you plan your visit and consider what support and/or equipment you might need to enjoy the festival.
Head to our accessibility page for full information on access.
Who are First Light Festival?
We’re a lovely, small team of passionate people! Visit our Who We Are page to find out about us.