THE countdown is nearly over: Lumiere Durham 2013 begins tomorrow (Thursday, November 14).

Countless bulbs will flicker into action for the third biennial light-themed art spectacular at 4.30pm today.

Twenty-five installations will be sited across Durham City, from a giant elephant crossing Elvet Bridge to giant 3D sun at Durham University’s science site.

Over the next four nights, more than 150,000 visitors are expected from across the region and beyond – creating an economic boost approaching £5m.

Helen Marriage, Lumiere’s artistic director, said: “Lumiere has become a fixture in the cultural calendar of the North-East.

“It brings some of the world’s most eminent artists to Durham and attracts attention around the world.

“This year’s festival will combine high octane excitement with moments of quiet contemplation, sprinkled with pure joyous fun.”

Simon Henig, leader of Durham County Council, said: “Lumiere Durham 2013 promises to both entertain and amaze with a mix of technology and spectacle.

“The range of light installations and the changes made to the way the event will run look set to deliver a truly world class festival once more.

“And importantly, one which will deliver significant and lasting economic benefits to the county.”

Following complaints about overcrowding at Lumiere 2011, opening times have been extended and 200 volunteers will direct visitors.

All tickets, needed for the central area between 4.30pm and 7.30pm, have now been issued. But there are plenty of attractions elsewhere and the peninsula will be open to all after 7.30pm.

Last night (Wednesday), experts were testing some of the attractions. Shoppers stopped to admire and take photos of Elephantastic, Nathan Coley’s A Place Beyond Belief and the 30ft-high Consumerist Christmas Tree, which is made of plastic bags.

Meanwhile, a competition has been launched to pick the best ‘Virtual Lumiere’ artwork created using a web app. The winner will be chosen by Peter Barron, editor of The Northern Echo, and posted online at thenorthernecho.co.uk. To enter, visit thisisdurham.com/VirtualLumiere

Visitors are advised to wrap up warm. The forecast for tonight is dry but cold, getting down to four degrees Celsius.

For more information, lumiere-festival.com/durham, twitter.com/artichoketrust, facebook.com/artichoketrust