York balloon and fireworks spectacular to go ahead – updated to meet the new Covid restrictions

Organisers of one of the few events in York to survive the pandemic say it is going ahead – with a few adjustments for the new Covid restrictions.

Described as ‘a spectacle of light’, Autumn Lights is a drive-in fireworks show taking place at Elvington Airfield on Bonfire Night.

It will feature a hot air balloon night glow, food and drink stalls and what is being billed as ‘York’s biggest fireworks show yet’.

It was created by John Lowery, whose events company stages the York Balloon Fiesta, now postponed until 2021.

He has teamed up with the original organiser Oliver Webb to create Autumn Lights.

Now they have taken stock of the latest Covid restrictions set out by Prime Minister Boris Johnson yesterday (Wednesday) and have made a new announcement.

Changes and tickets

The main casualty of the changes is the funfair.

In a Facebook post the organisers said: “In light of the recent announcement of a new law restricting gatherings to a maximum of six people, we understand you may have concerns about how it affects Autumn Lights.

“As it stands, we have made the decision to remove the funfair, but we are still planning for catering options.

“The only thing that has changed is that a maximum of six can group together and that large car occupants – more than six people – must all be from the same family or household.”

They said they are constantly adapting to meet up-to-date guidance set out by the government.

“Please be assured that our event will be fully Covid compliant and secure so families and friends can enjoy the show in comfort and confidence.”

The early bird tickets, at £20 a car, have sold out. Tickets are on sale here at £25 per car of up to five people, and £35 per large car of up to eight people.