Following months of restrictions for the hospitality sector, Hilton Manchester Deansgate, the luxury hotel housed in Beetham Tower, is set to feature a light display to salute the much-anticipated reopening of hospitality on Monday 17 May 2021.
The initiative, entitled Light Up MCR, will see the Hilton create a giant numerical 10-1 countdown each night across 22 floors of the hotel’s building facade. Using its floor-to-ceiling windows and bedroom lights, the countdown will go live 7 May from 21:00.
The light display will culminate in the floors lighting up to reveal the shape of a heart, highlighting the community spirit that has kept the Manchester hotel industry afloat throughout the pandemic.
Once hospitality is able to ‘fully’ reopen on 17 May, Light Up MCR will open their first night exclusively for members of the MHA in the Hilton’s Cloud 23 bar for industry workers and supporters.
The countdown is in collaboration with the Manchester Hoteliers Association (MHA), a non-profit organisation of the key hotels within the city centre and the Greater Manchester area, and will serve as a show of solidarity for those in the industry in the city region.
Adrian Ellis, chair of the MHA, said “Light Up MCR is a brilliant opportunity for all who are connected to the hospitality industry to celebrate the reopening of our beloved sector. Over the past 12 months we’ve faced huge challenges, as tight restrictions in our region have resulted in an extended period in which hospitality has been closed.
“Facing such difficulties would have been insurmountable had it not been for the enduring community spirit which carried the sector through.”
He added “The culture of support and kindness in the Manchester hospitality sector has been unrivalled, so to have an occasion, like Light Up MCR, where all of the industry can celebrate its return is really heartwarming. We hope lots of people will turn out and show support.”
Adam Reckert, general manager of the Hilton Manchester Deansgate said that he was “delighted to be able to support the MHA in a way that can help unify Manchester’s hospitality industry”.
Hospitality workers will be able to enjoy complimentary and discounted drinks in Hilton’s champagne and cocktail bar, Cloud23, on the night. Tickets can be secured by contacting the relevant General Manager who will confirm the booker is connected to the MHA.
