Paddy McGuinness named Blackpool Illuminations switch-on star for 2026

BBC Radio 2’s Paddy McGuinness is set to light up Blackpool’s biggest night of the year on Friday 4 September.

Beloved television and radio presenter, comedian and author Paddy McGuinness will perform the honour of switching on the world-famous Blackpool Illuminations at this year’s Switch-On event on Friday 4 September 2026.

Paddy McGuinness, one of the UK’s most recognisable television and radio personalities, is no stranger to Blackpool. He has previously performed at both the Winter Gardens and the Grand Theatre, filmed an episode of Top Gear in the resort and cycled through the town as part of his BBC Children in Need fundraising challenge.

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 star-studded evening will begin with a spectacular free concert on the Tower Festival Headland, featuring performances from singer-songwriter Lucy Spraggan, rock quintet The Feeling and headlined by iconic British pop group Five.

Thousands of people will gather for the annual celebration in an arena in the shadow of The Blackpool Tower, which marks the start of the Illuminations season and officially lights up six miles of Blackpool’s Promenade.

Paddy McGuinness said: “I grew up visiting Blackpool on family holidays and driving through the Illuminations. I’m chuffed to be asked to switch the lights and become part of the history of the town.

“I’ve performed in Blackpool plenty of times over the years and there’s always a fantastic atmosphere. I’m looking forward to joining the crowds for a belting night out.”

Cllr Lynn Williams MBE, Leader of Blackpool Council, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Paddy McGuinness as our Switch-On star for 2026. Paddy is one of the UK’s most loved entertainers and has a wonderful connection with audiences across the country.

“The Switch-On event is always a highlight of the year and, with performances from Lucy Spraggan, The Feeling and Five, we are looking forward to welcoming thousands of people to the resort for what will be a fantastic evening of live music and entertainment.”

Kate Shane MBE, Managing Director of Blackpool Tourism Limited, said:
“We’ve had a fantastic reaction to this year’s Switch-On line-up and I know visitors will be delighted to see Paddy McGuinness pull the famous switch and officially launch the 2026 Blackpool Illuminations season. As a family favourite with strong northern roots, he’s the perfect person to help us kick off the autumn season in Blackpool.

“There’s still time to apply for free tickets through the ballot, or to guarantee your place in front of the stage by purchasing a Golden Circle ticket.”

Graham Liver said: “We’re thrilled to be hosting the iconic Blackpool Illuminations Switch-On.

“This partnership gives us the opportunity to showcase the very best of the BBC as well as some great local talent. The team at Blackpool Tourism really know how to put on a good show and we’re delighted to be a part of it!"

A total of 20,000 free tickets will be available through a public ballot, which closes at 11pm on Sunday 9 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.

For more information visit www.visitblackpool.com/switchon.