Given the extensive and complex turn of events around the world and here in Aotearoa-New Zealand since early 2020, we have worked on several versions of what the coming 10th Luminate could be, determined to find a way to carry out our purpose and vision.
In such unstable times we have had to let go of attempting to organise an event at the scale of what Luminate has grown to become as an internationally renowned festival. This has not been an easy decision to make.
We have anchored the Luminate Festival flotilla in a safe harbour for this coming year, and until such time that Luminate Festival can shine its light in all its brilliance again.
In this pause, we acknowledge each one of you for being part of this global community, and for your contribution and participation in Luminate over the years. We feel immense gratitude, and notice how our lives have been enriched by co-creating this beautiful and unique festival, that has resonated with thousands of people and provided authentic transformational experiences for so many, including all of us in the management team and crew.
Lunasa – An exciting new adventure!
Here’s our new vision for what we think is realistic to achieve this summer, in the context of a rapidly changing world:
At Luminate, since 2008, we have celebrated the ancient festival of Lughnasadgh (Lunasa) at the peak of summer midway between the summer solstice and autumn equinox.
For 2021, to meet the need for extended community, friends and family to be together, we will hold space at this ancient seasonal time (3–10 February) on Pikikirunga for a new back-to-our-roots co-creation.
We are naming the event Lunasa.
Whilst we will retain the core essence of Luminate’s purpose, vision and culture at Lunasa, the event will be on a different scale to recent Luminate festivals; smaller and a more streamlined format that can that can adjust and flow with the circumstances and our needs at the time.
Thank you for staying on board with Luminate
As always, thank you for being part of this amazing global community. We trust you will feel a resonance and alignment with our intentions for Lunasa 2021, and our long term commitment to shining a powerful light in the world as Luminate.
If you are keen to join us at Lunasa we welcome you to learn more about Lunasa here.
Applications for Musicians, Workshop Presenters and Volunteers will open soon via the Apply section of the website.
Much love to you all,
From the Luminate Flotilla Hub
Jules, Rita, Adriana, Martine, Irma