Five announced as headline act for Blackpool Illuminations switch-on concert
British pop favourites Five are set to make sure Everybody Gets Up for the biggest night in the resort’s calendar, as they take centre stage at this year’s Illuminations Switch‑On.
The free outdoor event on the Tower Festival Headland, in the shadow of The Blackpool Tower, takes place on Friday 4 September 2026 and marks the start of the iconic Illuminations season.
This year’s event sees Blackpool Tourism Limited collaborate with the BBC, with the evening hosted by BBC Radio Lancashire presenters Graham Liver and Sharon Hartley. As part of the collaboration, BBC Radio Lancashire will also showcase some of the region’s most exciting up-and-coming talent through BBC Introducing.
The momentum will build with performances from rock quintet The Feeling and chart‑topping singer‑songwriter Lucy Spraggan, before the night culminates in an hour‑long headline set from Five.
Formed in 1997, Five went on to sell more than 20 million records worldwide, charting in over 20 countries. Their reunion Keep On Movin’ tour was the first time all five band members had shared the stage together in over 25 years. After initially going on sale with 12 shows, the tour eventually spanned 25 arenas across the UK and Ireland.
They will come to Blackpool on the back of a summer of high-profile performances, including recent appearances at Download and the Isle of Wight festivals.
Kate Shane MBE, Managing Director of Blackpool Tourism Ltd, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Five to headline the Switch-On Concert. Their reunion tour was a sell-out success, showing they have remained a fan favourite. This summer, they have been entertaining huge crowds at some of the biggest festivals in the country.
“Following audience feedback from previous years, we know that people want the opportunity to guarantee their tickets rather than waiting for the outcome of the ballot.
“We’ve introduced the option to purchase Golden Circle tickets now, so people can start to make their travel and accommodation arrangements.”
Cllr Lynn Williams MBE, Leader of Blackpool Council, said: “The Switch-On is always a highlight of our year and this line-up promises a fantastic way to start the Illuminations season. We’re thrilled to welcome such incredible talent to the Tower Festival Headland and to celebrate with residents and visitors alike.
“It’s yet another powerful example of why Blackpool is a leading contender for City of Culture status. Few places can deliver world-class, free events in such iconic settings and we’re proud to do it year after year.”
A total of 20,000 free tickets will be available through a public ballot, which opens on 30 June at 12 noon and closes at 5pm on Thursday 6 August. Tickets will be fairly split between Blackpool Council residents and visitors.
Visit www.visitblackpool.com/switchon to apply. Successful applicants will be required to pay a £5 admin fee per booking.
Visitors wishing to guarantee their place can purchase a Golden Circle ticket for £12 plus a £5 admin fee per booking, with tickets released on Tuesday 30 June at 10am.
For more information visit www.visitblackpool.com/switchon.
The celebrity set to pull the famous switch and launch this year’s Illuminations will be revealed in the coming weeks.