The event was held over two weekends to prevent crowds from gathering at any specific artworks, and art installations were located in each quadrant of the city.

According to Executive Director Alisha Sullivan, “When we approached local businesses, organizations and artists about moving ahead with this year’s experience, we weren’t sure what the response would be – but we were amazed by the positive reaction.

It’s clear that everyone is craving a sense of placemaking and civic engagement.”[6] Stephanie Yao Long of The Oregonian called the event "playful and wondrous".

[3] Martin Cizmar of the Willamette Week wrote, "This new event makes good use of the new Tilikum Crossing Bridge, not to mention the long, dark winter nights our latitude ensures.

"[7] In May 2017, the festival was featured on OPB's Oregon Art Beat television show,[8] which stated "An easy walk along the Eastside Esplanade allows a visitor to take in everything from elaborate interactive LED sculptures to large-scale projection mapping to post-apocalyptic, fire-powered spaceships."