City of Codes & Light Festival: A luminous celebration of innovation, art and history returns to Milton Keynes

The City of Codes & Light Festival returns to Milton Keynes in October and it’s grander, bolder and more radiant than ever.

Organised by Milton Keynes Islamic Arts and Culture (MKIAC), brace yourself for a four-day extravaganza celebrating innovation, art, science and technology, encompassing imaginative workshops, educational symposiums and memorable performances.

Taking place from the 4th to the 7th of October, the festival promises a varied programme of workshops, academic seminars, thought-provoking discussions and commissioned artist installations, including STEM activities by the award-winning organisation, 1001 Inventions.

Situated around MKC Library, SCIoT and Bletchley Park, immerse yourself in the theme of ‘Learning’, delving deep into history, art, science, maths, technology and sustainability. The event will spotlight the significant contributions made by culturally diverse artists, mathematicians and scientists over time, ranging from the golden era of Muslim civilisation to Alan Turing’s monumental codebreaking of the Enigma during WWII at Bletchley Park, which directly influenced today’s technological world.

Throughout the festival, the MKC Library will transform into a bustling activity centre. It will also showcase a collaboration with international artists Maria Almera and Nestor Rubio. Together, they’ve designed ‘Relax and Release’ – a pioneering interactive installation that addresses the mental health challenges young individuals face.

The dazzling ‘Echoes from the Golden Era’ projection and illumination of MKC Library on the 7th of October will usher in the digital light parade, with enormous glowing puppets and adorned lanterns culminating in a joyous march towards Campbell Park.

Concluding the 2023 Festival festivities will be a resplendent finale featuring The Old Savoy Jazz Band, the fusion ensemble Symphonica and Mr Switch. Together, they’ll meld the sounds of Jazz rhythm, a classical orchestra and the beats of the dance floor in a riveting laser light show.

The cherry on top? Entrance is completely FREE, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to indulge in a vast array of activities and events celebrating creativity, innovation and community spirit.