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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Family Friendly | Arts & Culture | Wet Weather
The Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse
Beloved characters from the UK’s number one bestselling children’s author Julia Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler have made a home on Blackpool’s seafront.
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Groups | Coastal | History & Heritage
Grand Theatre
One of the few remaining theatres of great architectural character, designed by Frank Matcham. It has a magnificent 4-level auditorium with 1,200 seats.
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Coastal | History & Heritage
Blackpool Heritage Tram Workshop
Explore the history of Blackpool's rich tram heritage.
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Coastal | Arts & Culture
The Regent Cinema
Located in the heart of Blackpool town, The Regent Cinema invites you to enjoy a movie experience like no other.
Read MoreBlackpool Events
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Arts & Culture
The Carpenters Story - Grand Theatre
Date: 30th May 2027
A musical journey through the glittering career of pop’s most famous brother and sister duo.Featuring all of the Carpenters hit songs including Close To You, Top of the World, We’ve Only Just Begun, Rainy Days & Mondays, Goodbye to Lov...
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Events
Ross Noble: Cranium of Curiosities - Grand Theatre
Date: 5th May 2027
Roll up, roll up! Or use a more conventional form of transport to get to the show. It's entirely your choice. Unless you accidentally become trapped in a barrel*.Should that happen, then just find an incline and start rolling to see th...
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Events
ELO Again - Grand Theatre
Date: 28th Feb 2027
The stunning ‘Re-Discovery Tour’ celebrating the truly universal music of Jeff Lynne and the Electric Light Orchestra. Now in their 8th year ELO Again give a dramatic taste of what a legendary ELO concert would have been like back in their heyday....
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Arts & Culture
Sweeney Todd - Opera House & Winter Gardens
Date: 28th Oct 2026
An Immersive Theatrical Event Prepare to be transported back in time as the Pavilion Theatre transforms into the infamous Mrs. Lovett’s pie shop. Sit right in the middle of the action where every note of suspense is palpable, and the aroma of myst...
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Arts & Culture
Anything for Love - The Meatloaf Story - Grand Theatre
Date: 3rd Oct 2026
Steve Steinman made his public debut when appearing on the UK's popular impersonation competition Stars In Their Eyes in 1993, going on to become the show's most successful contestant. Appearing as Meat Loaf and wowing audiences both in the studio...
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Events
K-POP Live - Grand Theatre
Date: 2nd Oct 2026
Get ready to unleash your inner idol! K-Pop Live - the most magical K-Pop celebration to hit the UK! Prepare for mind-blowing performances, incredible production, and the ultimate fan experience!
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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