LIGHT UP THE NIGHT

In 1888, Tamworth became the first municipality in the Southern Hemisphere to have electric street lighting. This is why Tamworth has become known as ‘City of Light’. The story behind the Council’s progressive decision to set up a steam powered electric plant to light up Tamworth’s streets at night is full of colourful characters who championed the introduction of electric lighting and those who staunchly opposed it. 

 Light Up the Night 2018 will take place on the 130th Anniversary of the switching on of the lights – 9 November 2018 at the Museum and Parade Ground. The celebrations will also include a pop-up-bar, circus performers, guided tours of the museum, and a great opportunity to see the mighty John Fowler steam engines all fired up and running into the night. 

 The Tamworth Dramatic Society will also present an exciting outdoor performance with projections and live actors that will bring the story of Tamworth ‘City of Light’ to life for the community. It will take on the very place where the electric plant first generated electricity to light the streets.