A MOB of giant monsters is set to return to Leicester city centre next month, just in time for half-term and Halloween.
From 22–31 October, the eight playful monsters will appear on city rooftops, at windows and around corners, popping up in unexpected places to surprise unsuspecting visitors.
Following the event’s debut in 2023, which attracted more than 80,000 visitors, The Return of Leicester Monsters will introduce families to a colourful cast of larger-than-life characters created by internationally renowned artists Filthy Luker & Pedro Estrellas.
Among the monsters waiting to be discovered is Chomper, a giant orange monster with an appetite for bricks, mortar and the occasional chimney, who will be taking up residence at Mattioli Woods at the bottom of New Walk.
Over at Highcross, the overly affectionate Tentacle Terry will be reaching out to make new friends, while his long-suffering wife Tentacle Tina will be waiting for him at Metro Bank near the Clock Tower.
Visitors to Jewry Wall will come face-to-face with aspiring rockstar Sick Jagger, while Jazz Hands, an actor desperately awaiting his big break, will be found close to Leicester’s Cultural Quarter at the LCB Depot.
Monster hunters will be encouraged to track down all eight of the illuminated installations and check in at each location using the My Leicester App. Anyone who completes all eight check-ins will automatically be entered into a monster prize draw.
The Return of Leicester Monsters will take place during Leicester Restaurant Week, when dozens of restaurants, cafés and bars will be offering special fixed-price menus and exclusive dining deals that will make eating out in half-term a little more affordable for families.
Assistant city mayor Cllr Vi Dempster said: "We're thrilled that the Monsters will be returning to Leicester next month and are very proud to support this event.
“These giant, colourful creatures were a huge hit when they first appeared three years ago, putting a smile on people's faces and bringing fun - and surprises - to the city centre.
“This free event is a fantastic way for families to enjoy the October half term, and with Leicester Restaurant Week taking place at the same time, there'll be even more reason to visit the city centre and enjoy a monster day out."
The Return of Leicester Monsters is presented by BID Leicester, with support from Leicester City Council and Leicester Cathedral.
Simon Jenner, Director of BID Leicester, said: "Leicester Monsters captured people's imaginations when it first arrived in 2023 and quickly became one of the city's most-loved events.
"Ever since then we've been asked when the monsters would be coming back, so we're delighted to finally be able to announce their return.
"We're looking forward to welcoming families back into the city centre this October for another monster-sized adventure."
The event runs from Thursday 22 October to Saturday 31 October 2026 and is completely free to enjoy.
The full monster map will be available soon, and further information is available at BID Leicester’s Leicester Monsters webpage.