WORCESTER— While Worcester swelters under a summer heat wave, the city is already thinking ahead to colder days — and brighter nights.
The city’s Downtown Worcester Business Improvement District (BID) is putting out a call to artists to help transform the heart of downtown into a glowing winter wonderland.
The callout invites proposals for illuminated public art and lighting installations as part of the 2025–2026 Winter Lighting Program, culminating in the annual Festival of Lights celebration on Friday, Dec. 5.
The selected artworks debut during the Festival of Lights on the Worcester Common and remain on display through March 1, 2026, lighting up the city’s core throughout the winter season.
“The Festival of Lights is one of Worcester’s most cherished winter traditions,” said Fabian Barracks, the city’s Cultural Development Officer, in the official announcement. “We’re thrilled to support more artists in illuminating our public spaces and fostering cultural vibrancy downtown.”
Supported by the New England Foundation for the Arts’ (NEFA) Making It Public Grant, the BID, and the City of Worcester, the initiative is offering up to $30,000 in funding for selected proposals. The funds may be distributed among multiple projects or awarded as a single grant, depending on the scale and scope of submissions.
“Each year, the Winter Lighting Program reimagines the Common as a magical gathering place,” said BID Program Director Victoria Mariano. “This is a wonderful opportunity for artists to contribute to our city’s creative landscape while engaging directly with the public in meaningful, joyful ways.”
Artists and artist teams 18 and older are eligible to apply, with a strong emphasis on Worcester-connected creators. Applicants with experience in public art, illuminated installations, and site-specific works are especially encouraged to submit proposals. Interactive elements and energy-efficient lighting—preferably LED—are welcome, but all proposals must address public safety and durability.
The call stems from Worcester’s participation in Making It Public 2025, a NEFA training and grant program developed in partnership with the Metropolitan Area Planning Council’s Arts & Culture Department. Worcester was one of just 10 municipalities selected to participate.
Proposals must include a completed application, budget, design plan, project and artist samples, and must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 1. Online applications are preferred, though submissions may also be emailed as PDFs or delivered to the Cultural Development Division at Worcester City Hall.
More information and full application guidelines are available at worcesterma.gov/cultural-development.
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