City of Worcester, MA

WORCESTER, Mass. – The City of Worcester Cultural Development Division and the Downtown Worcester Business Improvement District (BID) announced Monday a Call for Artists to submit proposals for the design and fabrication of temporary illuminated public art and lighting installations for the 2025–2026 Winter Lighting Program and the annual Festival of Lights, taking place Friday, Dec. 5, 2025.

Artists are invited to propose 2D or 3D illuminated artworks that will transform the Worcester Common into a vibrant, festive space during the holiday season and beyond. Selected artworks will be revealed during the Festival of Lights celebration and remain on display throughout the winter season, through March 1, 2026. 

This initiative is supported by the New England Foundation for the Arts’ (NEFA) Making It Public Grant, the BID, and the City of Worcester. The City of Worcester Cultural Development Division was one of 10 municipalities selected to participate in a public art training and grant initiative by NEFA. The training, Making It Public 2025, was offered by NEFA in partnership with the Metropolitan Area Planning Council’s Arts & Culture Department.

Following a matching grant from NEFA, $30,000 is available for the Winter Lighting Program and artist proposals. The funds will potentially be distributed across multiple awards ranging from $5,000 and up or one award of $30,000, based on the scope and scale of selected proposals.

“The Festival of Lights is one of Worcester’s most cherished winter traditions,” said Cultural Development Officer Fabian Barracks. “We’re thrilled to support more artists in illuminating our public spaces and fostering cultural vibrancy downtown.”

“Each year, the Winter Lighting Program reimagines the Common as a magical gathering place,” said Downtown Worcester 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.”

The call is open to artists and artist teams aged 18 and older, with an emphasis on applications from Worcester-connected individuals. Artists with experience in public art, illuminated works, community engagement, and site-specific design are strongly encouraged to apply. Both established and emerging artists are welcome.

Proposals may incorporate interactive elements, use energy-efficient lighting (LED preferred), and must consider public safety, maintenance, and power access. 

Applicants must include a completed Festival of Lights 2025-2026 Application for Illuminated Public Art & Lighting Installation, project budget, design plan, project samples and artist work samples. Full proposal guidelines, site map, and photos of past installations can be found in the Call for Artists posted on the City of Worcester website. 

The deadline to submit the Artist Application is Aug. 1, 2025, by 5:00 p.m.

Online applications are preferred. Alternatively, applicants may submit a completed application in PDF format to culture@worcesterma.gov, or deliver to the Cultural Development Division, Worcester City Hall, Room 409, 455 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01608.