Coastal
Top tips to enjoy the biggest night of Blackpool's year
Posted on:
4 September 2026
Blackpool is counting down to its biggest night of the year as the world-famous Blackpool Illuminations Switch-On returns on Friday 4 September.
Blackpool
Known for its iconic seafront, Blackpool is one of Lancashire’s best-loved visitor destinations. The promenade is home to many of the resort’s most recognisable attractions, including the historic Blackpool Tower and the traditional piers, offering classic seaside experiences alongside long-established entertainment. Whether it’s a walk along the Golden Mile or time spent enjoying the shoreline, Blackpool delivers all the elements of a great British coastal break.
There’s plenty more to explore beyond the beach. Blackpool Pleasure Beach remains one of the UK’s leading theme parks, while venues across the town host a packed programme of shows and live performances throughout the year. The famous Blackpool Illuminations continue to draw visitors each autumn, lighting up the coastline with spectacular displays. With a wide choice of places to eat, stay and explore, Blackpool is a destination that’s easy to enjoy at any time of year.
Find out more Visit Blackpool
Be Inspired
Blackpool Zoo is celebrating the first birthday of Zaiya, the endangered Asian elephant calf whose extraordinary first year has seen her receive 2,686 specialist feeds and over 8000 hours of personal commitment from her carers
Blackpool is set to host its first-ever Illumination Switch-On Watch Party on Friday 4 September, giving hundreds more people the chance to be part of the biggest night in the resort’s calendar.
Blackpool Businesses
Family Friendly | Coastal | History & Heritage
The Hole in Wand Blackpool
Blackpool's most magical attraction, The Hole in Wand Wizard Golf.
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Family Friendly | Coastal | Free things to do
World Horse Welfare Penny Farm
Penny Farm is a horse rescue and rehabilitation centre operated by the charity World Horse Welfare. They welcome visitors 3 days a week to meet the ponies & find out more about the work of the charity.
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Coastal
Mr Basrai's World Cuisines
Mr Basrai's world buffet offers a wide range of food from across the globe.
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Coastal | History & Heritage
The Blackpool Tower Dungeon Escape Rooms
Head into the eerie world of The Blackpool Dungeon and see if you can escape the noose before time runs out.
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Coastal
Blackpool South Pier
Blackpool's South Pier was once known as the Victoria Pier it opened in 1893 and was renamed South Pier in 1930. South Pier is a fun-filled day out for those of all ages. It is the most adrenaline-powered of the three piers with an array of thrill rides to tempt you. Whizz around the Crazy Coaster the UK's fastest spinning wild mouse ride or feel the adrenaline rush of the SkyCoaster. If you're after head-spinning thrills, South Pier is guaranteed to raise your vocal cords. Pop into The Gin House and enjoy live music from talented artists and DJ's daily throughout summer. The bar has modern décor, tasty cocktails and outdoor seating with a fantastic view - no booking required.
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Coastal
Adventure Golf
Each hole of our Adventure Golf offers unique hazards ranging from jumps and bumps to rivers and underground tunnels, all adding to the fun of the game.
Read MoreBlackpool Events
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Events
Squeeze - Opera House & Winter Gardens
Date: 13th Nov 2026
One of the best post-punk pop acts, helmed by the songwriting duo Glen Tilbrook and Chris Difford.
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Events
Hometown Glory - A Tribute To Adele - Viva Blackpool
Date: 16th Apr 2027
Join Natalie Black as she brings the magic of Adele to the stage in a stunning tribute show that has been wowing audiences worldwide since 2011. From weddings and cruises to TV appearances and even starring in the 2020 hit film ‘Greed’ alongside S...
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Events
The Australian Pink Floyd Show - Opera House & Winter Gardens
Date: 14th Nov 2026
Performing the music of Pink Floyd with note for note perfection, this critically acclaimed show has been astonishing audiences worldwide for more than three decades. Always striving to reproduce the complete Pink Floyd experience and bring the mu...
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Events
Rogue Minogue - The Ultimate Kylie Tribute - Viva Blackpool
Date: 27th Sept 2026
Get ready for a night of iconic pop hits, dancefloor favourites and feel-good live entertainment as Rogue Minogue brings the music of Kylie to Viva Blackpool on Sunday 27th September 2026.Celebrating one of the world’s most loved pop s...
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Events
Cast - Opera House & Winter Gardens
Date: 12th Sept 2026
Originally formed in 1992 from the ashes of The La’s and Shack, Cast released four albums and had ten top 10 singles before disbanding in 2001. As one of the most traditional guitar bands to emerge during the Brit-pop era of the mid-'9...
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Events
The Mersey Beatles - Opera House & Winter Gardens
Date: 19th Nov 2026
The Mersey Beatles have been rocking sold-out shows around the globe since 1999 with their truly authentic and widely acclaimed celebration of John, Paul, George and Ringo. The band – who clocked up more than 600 appearances in a 10-year residency...
Read MoreBlackpool Itineraries
Itineraries
Lancashire Set-Jetting: Blackpool, Preston and the surrounding areas
DurationThree days
Whether it is feature films, comedy shows, sci-fi or drama, Lancashire's wonderfully varied coastline, cities, towns and countryside, make it a wonderful place to capture people's imaginations.
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Itineraries
Lancashire Set-Jetting: East Lancashire, the Ribble Valley and the surrounding areas
DurationThree days
Iconic mills, rolling hills and a national landscape that rivals the beauty of the Lake District means that East Lancashire and the Ribble Valley are often used to showcase the quintessential British countryside on our tv and cinema screens.
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