Leicester Cathedral illuminated by hundreds of handmade stars in new winter installation

Paper Starlights celebrates its 30th anniversary with an installation bringing light, craftsmanship and a sense of community to one of Leicester's most historic landmarks.

Leicester Cathedral has been transformed into a glowing display of handmade illuminated stars as part of a winter installation celebrating craftsmanship, community and the importance of human connection.

Titled Light of Stars, the installation has been created by Paper Starlights, which marks its 30th anniversary this year, coinciding with the beginning of the cathedral's centenary celebrations.

The exhibition invites visitors of all faiths and none to experience the cathedral beneath a canopy of illuminated paper stars, offering a space for reflection, remembrance and quiet contemplation during the winter months.

Running until 5 January 2027, the installation follows an earlier presentation at Bath Abbey and continues the company's ambition to bring people together through light in historic religious buildings.

A celebration of light and community

Suspended throughout the cathedral, the illuminated stars create a striking contrast with the building's historic architecture.

The installation is intended to offer more than a decorative display, with each star representing themes of hope, welcome and connection.

Visitors are encouraged to interpret the experience in their own way, whether remembering a loved one, enjoying time with family and friends or simply finding a moment of peace away from everyday demands.

Andy Jupp of Paper Starlights said the project was designed to create a welcoming environment for everyone.

"We want people to look up and see something beautiful, but we also hope they feel welcome and find a little comfort beneath the stars."

He added: "Light means different things to different people. It might bring back a memory, represent hope or simply make a place feel warmer."

The installation's arrival at Leicester Cathedral is particularly significant as both organisations celebrate important milestones.

Thirty years of traditional craftsmanship

Founded in 1996, Paper Starlights has spent three decades producing decorative paper lanterns through a longstanding partnership with a family business in India.

The relationship now extends across two generations, with skilled artisans continuing to use traditional techniques to create the company's distinctive stars.

Each lantern is produced through a combination of screen printing, careful folding and hand finishing, reflecting a commitment to craftsmanship that has remained central to the business.

The production process involves makers from different faith backgrounds, adding another dimension to the installation's message of unity and inclusion.

For Paper Starlights, the Leicester exhibition provides an opportunity to recognise the people and traditions behind its products, connecting the artisans who create the lanterns with the communities who experience them.

Jupp said: "Our stars are for everyone, whatever their faith, belief or background. Seeing people come together beneath them at Leicester Cathedral is a lovely way to mark our 30th year."

Bringing new life to historic spaces

The installation forms part of a wider tradition of using art and light to encourage visitors to experience historic religious buildings in different ways.

By introducing contemporary decorative elements into the cathedral, Light of Stars offers an opportunity to appreciate the building's architecture while creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors who might not ordinarily attend.

The project also highlights the role that cathedrals continue to play as public spaces for cultural events, reflection and community gatherings.

For Leicester Cathedral, the installation provides a visual centrepiece during the opening months of its centenary celebrations.

For Paper Starlights, it represents three decades of work connecting traditional Indian craftsmanship with audiences across Britain.

Visiting Light of Stars

Light of Stars is on display at Leicester Cathedral until 5 January 2027.

Visitors can attend during the cathedral's regular daytime opening hours without advance booking.

Admission is by voluntary donation, with a suggested contribution of £6 per person.

The installation offers a seasonal opportunity to experience one of Leicester's historic landmarks in a different light, while celebrating the enduring appeal of handmade craftsmanship and the shared human experiences it can represent.