What is a Window Wanderland?
“Family friendly, pedestrian powered, wildly creative, building connection and community
Terry, James Bay Canada
with no agenda but that.”
Window Wanderland is based on a very simple idea
What if a bunch of people around here all put something interesting in their window on the same night, for everyone to see?”
Window Wanderland started with Lucy Reeves-Khan, an artist, creator and mother who found herself living with chronic pain and fatigue.
On the short evening walks she could manage when her pain was bad, she noticed how much more cheerful she felt when people had left their curtains open.
At first, I assumed I was just nosy, but I soon realized it was the warmth of the light and sense of kinship making me feel happier.”
With this in mind, she started the first Window Wanderland festival in Bristol in 2015. Since then, there have been hundreds of Window Wanderland festivals in the UK and internationally. Lucy has been featured on the One Show, Sky Arts and has worked in partnership with The Barbican and The Sage.
Every Festival is Unique
Some involve scores of windows, printed maps, big publicity campaigns and hundreds of people wandering the streets trying to spot displays in their neighbourhood. Others are tiny: one street agreeing to bring joy to a dark night.
They are all:
- Inclusive – anyone can join in whether making displays or viewing them
- Positive – they are FUN, enhance well-being and reduce isolation
- Creative – they give people the chance to express themselves as they are
- Non-capitalist by design – we promote collective wellbeing over profit.
Window Wanderland is Planet Friendly
Each festival is designed to be a walking trail and displays can be made from anything, including found objects and recycled materials, even your favourite shirts. It’s all about joining in without leaving your postcode.
Love Where You Are
Want to find more about organising a festival?
Wondering if there is a Wanderland near you?
If you know there’s one happening locally, join in the fun.
Consultancy
We have worked with some of the country’s biggest arts organisations. If you need expertise in creating local, impactful community events, please contact us.
Press/Media
All press and media enquiries please email our comms team.