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Every great event has its origin story, and for Te Ramaroa, it all began with a simple idea: to light up our city and celebrate creativity in all its glowing glory. What started as a small event to showcase the magic of light art has grown into a cornerstone of Nelson’s winter, drawing people from all walks of life to come together and experience the extraordinary.
In its early days, Te Ramaroa wasn’t quite the vibrant festival it is today. It began as a humble gathering of artists and locals, exploring new ways to bring art to life using light. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and as more artists got involved, the installations grew in size, complexity, and creativity. Before we knew it, the festival was illuminating the winter nights, attracting thousands of visitors and shining a spotlight on Nelson as a hub of artistic talent.
But this journey wasn’t just about the lights—it was about the people. The community has always been at the heart of Te Ramaroa, with local artists, schools, and volunteers playing key roles in bringing the festival to life. Each year, new collaborations and creative partnerships emerge, making the event a true reflection of Nelson’s spirit.
Over the years, Te Ramaroa has expanded its vision, welcoming artists from beyond our region while continuing to support and showcase local talent. From the early days of small light installations to the large-scale illuminated artworks we see today, the festival has never lost sight of what makes it special: a celebration of creativity, community, and connection.
As we look ahead to another bright chapter, we’re excited to keep growing, keep experimenting, and keep shining a light on the incredible talent we have right here in Nelson.
