Step inside Helios at Wakefield Exchange this summer and experience a breathtaking, larger‑than‑life encounter with the Sun, surrounded by free, family‑friendly space activities for all ages.
This Summer, Wakefield Exchange will host Helios, a spectacular large‑scale artwork that brings the awe and energy of the Sun into the heart of the city.
Created by renowned UK artist Luke Jerram, this six‑metre‑wide illuminated sphere reveals the Sun’s surface in extraordinary detail, offering visitors the rare chance to explore sunspots, filaments and swirling patterns usually hidden from the naked eye. Stepping beneath the glowing sculpture, audiences can experience an atmospheric fusion of solar imagery, sunlight and a specially commissioned surround‑sound composition that brings the science and mystery of our nearest star vividly to life.
Helios builds on the success of Jerram’s previous installations in Wakefield, including the hugely popular Museum of the Moon. With its striking scale and rich scientific detail, the artwork provides a safe and captivating way to encounter the Sun up close, highlighting everything from solar flares to the phenomena that created the unforgettable Northern Lights visible across the UK in 2024. Whether you’re fascinated by astronomy, captivated by large‑scale art, or simply curious to see the world’s star in a new light, Helios offers a powerful and immersive experience for all ages.
Alongside the installation, we will present a full programme of free, family‑friendly, space‑themed activities throughout the summer. Visitors can enjoy hands‑on workshops, creative crafts, dressing‑up sessions and playful drop‑in experiences designed to ignite curiosity and imagination. With something new to discover each week, the season promises to inspire residents and visitors alike, inviting everyone to celebrate the Sun’s light, energy and influence on our world through art, science and shared exploration.
Exhibition Events
Free Self-Led Craft Activities
Tuesday-Friday, 10am to 4pm
Young visitors can dive into our self-led craft stations, where they’ll be able to make, decorate, and explore at their own pace. And for anyone feeling a bit more adventurous, our space themed dress up zone will be open to all ages - perfect for transforming into an astronaut, alien, or intergalactic explorer before stepping into the world of Helios!
Activities
Saturday 13 June, 12pm-1pm
Wakefield Chanting Group invite you to experience the harmony, serenity, and collective spirit that chanting can bring.
Sunday 26 July, 10.30am-11.30am
Immerse yourself in a restorative sound journey beneath the warm glow of Helios.
Thursday 6 August, 7pm-8pm
Join us for a little golden hour magic...
Saturday 8 August, 12pm-6pm
Join The Skate Sanctuary for friendly and inclusive roller-skating workshops!
Saturday 8 August, 7pm - 10.30pm
Are you ready to rock and roll(er skate) on the dancefloor? Come along to skate, dance and make new friends at our inclusive Rainbow Roller Disco!
Family Activities
Tuesday 21 July - Tuesday 25 August, 11am - 2pm
Blast off into an action-packed adventure designed to get kids moving, laughing, and working together!
Thursday 23 July - Thursday 27 August, 11am - 3pm
Every Thursday during the Summer Holidays, drop-in for a different FREE family creative workshop session! No booking needed – get creative this summer with activities inspired by the sun and space. All materials provided.
Hanging Mobile Solar Systems
Thursday 23 July, 11am - 3pm
Sun Masks & Sun Wands
Thursday 30 July, 11am - 3pm
Create your own Alien Explorer
Thursday 6 August, 11am - 3pm
Brusho Planet Painting
Thursday 13 August, 11am - 3pm
Sun Catcher Window Hangings
Thursday 20 August, 11am - 3pm
Sun & Sparkle Tattoos with Donnas Face Painting
Thursday 27 August, 11am - 3pm
Wednesday 29 July - Wednesday 26 August, 10:30am - 3pm
Blast off on an imaginative adventure with storyteller Beccy, whose magical tales explore space, the Sun and the wonders that surround us.
Feeling Peckish? Our street food & drink vendors have something for everyone…
Smash & Dash - Smash & Dash Wakefield | Wakefield Exchange
Gray’s Coffee Shop - Gray's Coffee Shop | Wakefield Exchange
La Chingada Tex Mex - La Chingada Tex Mex | Wakefield Exchange
The Exchange Tap - The Exchange Tap | Wakefield Exchange
Spudz Wakefield - Spudz Wakefield | Wakefield Exchange
Luke Jerram's Helios
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