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The return of the UK's only free beachfront festival was hailed as a great success as huge numbers soaked up the sunshine in Lowestoft.

Large crowds at First Light Festival 2026 in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

First Light Festival 2026 attracted massive crowds on Saturday and Sunday as the multi-arts festival celebrated the first midsummer sunrise in Britain's most easterly town.

Pakefield Man at First Light Festival 2026. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

A packed programme - featuring international acts, dozens of award-winning performers, live music, DJs, poets, comedians, fashion parades, workshops, wellbeing zones, art, unique sculptures, sports, talks, science and activities for all - took centre stage across 24 stages and festival spaces.

First Light Festival 2026 in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

Organised by First Light CIC, the festival was first staged in 2019.

Cut Capers perform at First Light Festival 2026 in Lowestoft. Image: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

As the temperatures rose, the sun-soaked midsummer weekend saw more than 200 performances transforming Lowestoft's South Beach, seafront, Kensington Gardens, the Upper Esplanade and promenade.

First Light Festival 2026 in........

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